Bears Release DE Tanoh Kpassagnon, Signals Key Roster Move

The Chicago Bears announced on Friday that they have released pass rusher Tanoh Kpassagnon.

Kpassagnon, 31, was brought in this offseason from the New Orleans Saints due to his familiarity with defensive coordinator Dennis Allen’s scheme. In four games, he totaled five tackles, one sack, and two quarterback hits.

With the Bears’ lack of pass rush early in the season, this move may seem like an odd decision from the team, but it’s likely signaling the return of a key member of the Bears’ pass rush, DE Austin Booker.

Bears Release Tanoh Kpassagnon, Likely Making Room for the Return of Austin Booker

The likely reason why the Bears brought in Kpassagnon in the first place was due to Booker’s knee injury, which placed him on injured reserve (IR).

Now that Booker is officially listed as questionable for this week’s matchup against the Saints, he will likely be elevated to the 53-man roster and take Kpassagnon’s place.

Booker had a standout preseason with four sacks before suffering the knee injury. He was slated to be a key pass rusher behind Montez Sweat and Dayo Odeyingbo, who have failed to meet expectations so far.

Sweat and Odeyingbo have a combined output of just two sacks, along with two roughing the passer penalties. Not good.

With Booker likely coming back, it’s good news for the Bears’ pass rush that desperately needs fresh energy.

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GettyChicago Bears pass rusher Austin Booker #94.

Allen is optimistic about what Booker will bring to the Bears’ pass rush, but understands that actions speak louder than words.

“Now we’ve just got to get him to a healthy enough spot where he can get out there and play games, and then we’ll be able to see what he can do,” Allen said. “I’ve seen signs that say he can impact the game, in particular from a pass rush standpoint.

Booker also commented on his time away, saying, “It was super frustrating.”

“But you’ve got to trust the process, trust everything happens for a reason, and work hard to get back on the field — and that’s what I did.”

Ben Johnson believes adding Booker back on the squad will be a huge boost for the Bears.

“You felt the pass rush there, particularly in the game setting,” Johnson said. “I saw it in practice and the joint practices as well. He was a guy that was able to affect the quarterback. …That’s really where I saw Booker making the biggest impact there in the preseason.”

Booker isn’t a superstar pass rusher like that of Myles Garrett or T.J. Watt, but he is a vital piece of this Bears’ defense, and the hope is he’s back on the field this Sunday against the Saints.

Aaron Judge Reflects on Historic Feat, Joining Babe Ruth and Barry Bonds: ‘I Never Take These Moments for Granted’

Aaron Judge is making history after joining the ranks of Babe Ruth

and Barry Bonds in a prestigious category that only a few have ever reached in MLB history. His recent achievement places him among the all-time greats, but Judge, ever humble, focused on the bigger picture and his role in the Yankees' ongoing journey.

“It’s an honor to be mentioned alongside legends like Babe Ruth and Barry Bonds,” Judge said, reflecting on the achievement. “But for me, it’s about the team. I’m grateful for the recognition, but my focus is always on helping this team win games and keep pushing forward.”

Judge’s milestone, one of the rarest in baseball, serves as a testament to his dominance and consistency at the plate. However, as much as the individual accolades are appreciated, Judge’s mindset remains firmly focused on the team’s goals—winning championships.

Judge’s Humility: ‘I’m Just Doing My Job’

Despite joining baseball royalty, Judge continues to downplay his personal achievements. “I’m just doing my job,” Judge said. “I show up every day to play hard for this team and help us win. There are a lot of great players who’ve come before me, and I’m fortunate to be in that conversation. But I’m always looking forward, not back.”

Judge’s ability to remain focused on the team’s success rather than basking in individual glory is a quality that has earned him the respect of teammates, coaches, and fans alike.

Teammates’ Praise: ‘He’s a True Leader on and off the Field’

Judge’s teammates were quick to praise his leadership and determination. “What he’s accomplished is amazing, but what makes Aaron special is his mentality,” said

Giancarlo Stanton, a fellow Yankees star. “He leads by example, and he keeps pushing the team forward. He’s been a huge part of our success, and we all follow his lead.”

Head coach Aaron Boone echoed those sentiments, emphasizing Judge’s importance to the team’s overall culture. “Aaron is everything you want in a leader. His humility, work ethic, and dedication to the team are unmatched,” Boone said. “This milestone is well deserved, but Aaron is always looking at the next challenge. That’s the kind of player and leader he is.”

Looking Ahead: ‘We’ve Got Bigger Goals in Mind’

As the Yankees aim for another postseason run, Judge is keeping his eyes on the ultimate prize. “This achievement is special, but it’s not what I’m focused on right now,” Judge said. “We have bigger goals in mind, and I’m committed to doing everything I can to help this team get there.”

Judge’s leadership on and off the field will be crucial as the Yankees push forward, and with his determination to keep winning, the best may still be ahead of him.

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