Bears release offensive lineman Omiyale

The Bears released seven-year veteran offensive lineman Frank Omiyale Thursday and also officially announced the release of nine-year veteran nose tackle Anthony Adams, who was informed earlier in the week that he was not in the team’s future plans.

Omiyale started 31 games in his three years with the Bears after he was signed as a free agent before the 2009 season. He played all 16 games in 2010, when he started 14 games at left tackle and two at right tackle. He started 12 games at left guard in ’09. Last season Omiyale replaced Gabe Carimi at right tackle after the rookie suffered a season-ending knee injury in Week Two. But Omiyale was replaced by Lance Louis after disappointing play in three starts. Carimi is expected to reclaim the starting spot this season.

Omiyale began his career with Atlanta as a fifth-round pick out of Tennessee Tech, and was claimed by the Carolina Panthers in 2007 after he was waived by the Falcons.

“Cuts are never easy but are a part of the evaluation process,” Phil Emery said of his first roster moves as Bears general manager. “We appreciate all that Anthony and Frank gave the Bears’ organization both on and off the field during their time in Chicago. We wish them the best moving forward.”