As the Chicago Bears gear up for their first season under new head coach Ben Johnson who previously led the Detroit Lions offense to elite status the team is entering a hopeful new era, looking to improve on last year’s 5-12 record. While most players left minicamp focused on the upcoming training camp, one veteran has officially closed his chapter in Chicago.
Longtime Bears long snapper Patrick Scales announced Friday night on Instagram that he’s moving on, ending an eight-year run with the team. Though he wasn’t under contract, Scales took the opportunity to thank the Bears organization, fans, and the city of Chicago, and to share that he’s seeking a new opportunity in free agency.
In his farewell message, Scales expressed deep appreciation for the team and city, calling Chicago “a dream come true” and highlighting the relationships and memories built during his time with the Bears. Scales, who first joined the Bears after a stint with the Ravens, appeared in 120 games for Chicago, serving as their long snapper from 2016 and consistently from 2018 through 2023.
A back injury sidelined him for the entire 2024 season, and with the Bears signing and re-signing Scott Daly earlier this year, Scales’ return became unlikely. While he hasn’t announced retirement, Scales is now hoping to continue his NFL career elsewhere as training camps approach.
