Jeremiah Ratliff: Released by Bears on Thursday

Ratliff was released by the Bears on Thursday.

After accruing 6.5 sacks in just 11 games last season, Ratliff entered 2015 as the Bears' top defensive lineman, making his release an unexpected development. It appears his termination wasn't for performance-based reasons, as Ratliff's dismissal likely stemmed from a heated argument with GM Ryan Pace outside the Bears' practice facility Wednesday morning, according to ESPN Chicago's Jeff Dickerson. The Chicago Sun-Times' Adam Jahns reports that the confrontation required police intervention, with Ratliff ultimately escorted away from the premises. It's not clear what's next for the 34-year-old, whose off-the-field baggage and history of disruptive behavior in the locker room may give other teams pause in signing him.