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Chicago Bears general manager Phil Emery made some roster moves on Tuesday, adding Isaiah Frey and Rashad Ross, and yesterday he made some additions to the practice squad. There was one more spot left on the roster, and the sense was that the Bears were waiting to see what their depth needs would be.
Today, they made their move:
#Bears sign CB Demontre Hurst to the 53-man roster. Can play the nickel but move might be special teams motivated. 2 tackles in opener.
— Brad Biggs (@BradBiggs) September 18, 2014
Demontre Hurst spent last season on the practice squad after entering the league as an undrafted free agent out of Oklahoma; his ability to back up the nickel position shouldn't be overlooked as the Bears are still short-handed at corner, with Tim Jennings, rookie Kyle Fuller, and Isaiah Frey the only healthy players at the position if Sherrick McManis (quad) is unable to go.
He wasn't necessarily the team's first option, but Kelvin Hayden opted not to re-join the Bears and, in any case, Hurst can contribute on special teams:
Bears re-sign CB Demontre Hurst to 53-man roster. CB Kelvin Hayden was considered, but the veteran grew weary of release/re-sign carousel
— Rich Campbell (@Rich_Campbell) September 18, 2014
The other major concern for the Bears has been starting DT Jeremiah Ratliff, who left the game on Sunday with a concussion. Rich Campbell notes that:
Bears adding a fifth CB instead of promoting a p-squad DT could indicate confidence in concussed Jay Ratliff's status for MNF. We shall see.
— Rich Campbell (@Rich_Campbell) September 18, 2014
So, potentially some goods news as we look ahead to Monday night's game against the Jets.
Your thoughts on the Hurst re-signing?
Force of habit: Article pic in hi-res.