Chicago Bears Release Veteran Receiver Ray-Ray McCloud

The Chicago Bears have released Ray-Ray McCloud, a veteran wide receiver and return specialist, from injured reserve after reaching an injury settlement. This decision comes shortly after the team finalized its initial 53-man roster.

McCloud, who was drafted by the Buffalo Bills in 2018, joined the Bears on August 10 to provide depth due to injuries among the receiving corps. However, he was placed on injured reserve on August 30 due to an undisclosed injury, which typically renders players ineligible for the season unless released.

The settlement, reported on September 4 and reflected in league transactions by September 5, allows McCloud to seek a position with another team once he recovers. This marks his seventh NFL team, having previously played for several franchises including the Pittsburgh Steelers, where he led the league in punt return yards in 2021. McCloud's career totals include 159 receptions for 1,523 yards and significant contributions on special teams.