The Chicago Bears made a big free agency splash in 2015 when they signed Pernell McPhee to a contract, but the linebacker will once again be dealing with injury issues to begin training camp.
McPhee, who only appeared in nine games last season and made 13 total tackles and four sacks, will begin training camp on the Physically Unable to Perform list as he continues to recover from shoulder surgery he underwent this offseason.
The linebacker will be able to come off the list at any point during training camp, but the fact that he still isn’t football ready is surely unwelcome news for a group that is looking to make some steps forward this season.
McPhee signed a five-year deal worth $38.75 million before the 2015 season, $18 million of which was guaranteed. If the Bears were to decide to cut ties with him after the 2017 season, he would represent only a $1 million cap hit next season and a $500,000 cap hit in 2019.
Meanwhile, both linebacker Danny Trevathan and offensive lineman Kyle Long participated in Thursday’s first workout in Bourbonnais, and while both will be eased back into the mix after surgeries, their presence on the field is a good sign that they’ll be ready to go in Week 1 for the Bears.
