National Football League

Kyle Long makes strong statement after Bears release Ray McDonald

Updated Mar. 4, 2020 11:52 p.m. ET

James Parziale

It's not surprising that the Bears acted swiftly in releasing Ray McDonald after he was arrested for the third time in nine months.

McDonald, who was arrested on charges of domestic violence and child endangerment, had been released by the 49ers in December, and was on thin ice with his non-guaranteed contract with the Bears.

The police report stated that McDonald "physically assaulted the victim while she was holding a baby." The Bears wasted no time, cutting McDonald just several hours later.

Bears offensive lineman Kyle Long had a strong message minutes after McDonald release.

“We believe in second chances, but when we signed Ray we were very clear what our expectations were if he was to remain a Bear,” Pace said. “He was not able to meet the standard and the decision was made to release him.”