National Football League

Bears release lineman Chris Williams

Published Oct. 16, 2012 1:00 a.m. ET

foxsports

The Chicago Bears have terminated offensive lineman Chris Williams' contract, ending a disappointing run for the former first-round draft pick.

Williams never lived up to his billing after being taken out of Vanderbilt with the 14th overall pick in 2008. He started 20 games at left guard, 11 at right tackle and seven at left tackle but never could settle into a position thanks to injuries and poor play.

He came into training camp this year competing with J'Marcus Webb for the starting spot at left tackle but was unable to beat him out. And when the Bears signed journeyman Jonathan Scott last month, Williams' days appeared to be numbered.

Besides letting Williams go on Tuesday, the Bears also signed cornerback Zack Bowman to a one-year contract.