The Chicago Bears released starting right tackle Jordan Mills on Sunday after claiming guard Patrick Omameh off waivers from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Mills, entering his third NFL season, started 29 games at right tackle for the Bears the past two years. The 24-year-old blocker told the Chicago Tribune the team said it plans to go in a new direction.
The Bearstoyed with Long at tackle during offseason workouts, but he saw no time on the outside during the preseason.
"Do I think I can play tackle?" Long said last week. "No doubt. Will I play tackle? No idea. I am a right guard."
NFL Media's Daniel Jeremiah noted in June that many in the NFL believed Long would end up starting the season at right tackle because a blocker of his caliber is much more valuable on the outside than at guard.Â
Sunday's roster shakeup could turn belief into reality. Vladimir Ducasse or Omameh could take over the guard spot if Long moves to tackle.
Given the Bears' offensive line struggles this preseason, getting a stronger blocker on the outside is something which Jay Cutler and Matt Forte should be lobbying for heading into Week 1.
