Bears release WR Knox

Veteran wide receiver Johnny Knox was released by the Chicago Bears Tuesday, ending a four-year stint with the team.

Knox started 27 of 45 games from 2009-11 with the Bears, catching 133 passes for 2,214 yards and 12 touchdowns. He missed last 2012 season on the PUP list with a back injury.

The 26-year-old hasn't played since suffering a spinal injury Dec. 18, 2011 on a hit by Seattle Seahawks defensive end Anthony Hargrove. He has had surgery to repair a fractured vertebra.