Nov 27, 2011; Oakland, CA, USA; Chicago Bears wide receiver Johnny Knox (13) scores a touchdown against the Oakland Raiders during the second quarter at O.co Coliseum. Oakland defeated Chicago 25-20. Mandatory Credit: Jason O. Watson-USA TODAY Sports

Johnny Knox recently was cut from the Chicago Bears roster and it looks like he won’t be looking for a new team. He missed all of the 2012 season recovering from a back injury and said he bears no ill will towards the Bears for terminating his contract.

Just drafted in the 2009 season his young career is coming to an end. He had only caught 133 receptions for 2,214 yards. He was a successful punt returner taking 55 punts 1,506 yards.

Knox was remaining optimistic about his future saying ’things will work out for the best.’

It’s always sad to see someone’s career cut short by injury and being unable to fulfill their potential but it is clear Knox is making the smart decision for his career and health.

Bears’ Phil Emery said the following in a statement:

“Johnny should be very proud of his accomplishments and what he’s done for the city of Chicago and for the Chicago Bears. He did a lot for our fans and a lot for our team. I’m disappointed for him that he won’t me able to move forward with the team. Johnny will always be a Bear and he will always be welcome here in our practice facility and all our team events and at games.” – via ChicagoBears.com

Dec 18, 2011; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bears receivers Johnny Knox (13) and Devin Hester (23) before the game against the Seattle Seahawks at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports

With Devin Hester looking to be moved back to being a full time return-man or be traded, the Chicago Bears have announced they have released former Pro Bowl selection Johnny Knox. Knox who was drafted in the late 5th round of the 2009 draft, stepped in at wide receiver for a struggling offense and picked up 2,200 yards (12 touchdowns) in 3 years. During the 2011 season, Knox was injured on a play where he made a catch over the middle, lost the football and was almost bent in half while trying to recover the fumble. He missed the rest of the 2011 season and the whole 2012 season due to his back injury. With this move, this throws out more questions for this offense who is trying to stay consistent game after game. Knox who was healthy, was not only a return threat, but one of the best receivers on their roster, before Brandon Marshall came along.

Phil Emery issued statements today minutes after announcing Knox was released, saying:

“Johnny should be very proud of his accomplishments and what he’s done for the city of Chicago and for the Chicago Bears. He did a lot for our fans and a lot for our team. I’m disappointed for him that he won’t me able to move forward with the team. Johnny will always be a Bear and he will always be welcome here in our practice facility and all our team events and at games.” – via ChicagoBears.com

It will be interesting to see what Phil Emery decides to do with Devin Hester now that Johnny Knox is gone. Maybe they could make a move for Minnesota Vikings own Percy Harvin who are seriously considering trading him very soon. With free agents such as Mike Wallace, Greg Jennings, Dwayne Bowe (who will more than likely be franchise tagged), Danny Amendola, Brandon Gibson or Brian Hartline being available, Emery could sign one or sweet talk Minnesota into taking a later pick like he did the Miami Dolphins for Brandon Marshall. It is another hole on this team, yet to be filled.