The Chicago Bears have released defensive end Alex Brown, the team announced Thursday, after reportedly trying to trade him. The move didn't come as a surprise to Brown, who had posted a farewell message on his Twitter page the previous day. "I am extremely grateful for my time as a Chicago Bear and I wish the Bears the best," Brown said Wednesday. "I am glad that they gave me an opportunity to realize a dream I had as a child. I appreciate the fans but as we all know this is the nature of the business. Bear down!"