Chicago Bears release Terell Smith and acquire Clark Phillips III

The Chicago Bears released cornerback Terell Smith on August 30, 2026, following the conclusion of their final preseason game. Smith, a 2023 fifth-round draft pick, struggled with persistent injuries throughout his tenure with the team and missed the entire 2025 season. His departure coincides with a trade between Chicago and the Atlanta Falcons that sent defensive tackle Gervon Dexter Sr. to Atlanta in exchange for a fifth-round draft pick and cornerback Clark Phillips III. Phillips joins the Bears' secondary after recording 63 tackles and two forced fumbles during his time with the Falcons. Separately, the team continues to manage the status of Kyler Gordon, who is expected to remain on the physically unable to perform list as the roster is finalized. Teammates have characterized Gordon’s ongoing recovery process as unusual.

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