Bears part ways with rookie long snapper Beau Gardner
The Chicago Bears have made a significant roster move, waiving rookie long snapper Beau Gardner after only two weeks of the 2026 NFL regular season. Gardner, who was a standout at the University of Georgia and earned All-SEC honors, had a promising start in Week 1, contributing to Chicago's record-setting victory over the Carolina Panthers. In that game, he successfully snapped for one field goal and eight extra points, showcasing his potential as a reliable long snapper.
However, Gardner's performance took a downturn in Week 2 during a disappointing 9-3 loss to the Minnesota Vikings. The Bears' offense struggled throughout the game, and the situation worsened when quarterback Caleb Williams sustained an injury while attempting to score. This setback was compounded by a blocked field goal attempt, which was attributed to a poor snap from Gardner. Bears head coach Ben Johnson commented on the blocked kick, stating, "The operation was not clean. The snap was not good. The first field goal was a warning shot as far as I’m concerned."
In light of Gardner's inconsistent performance and the team's need for stability in the long snapping position, the Bears have opted to sign Scott Daly to their active roster. Daly, who previously spent two seasons with Chicago from 2024 to 2025, was released in free agency but has been on the practice squad of the New Orleans Saints. His familiarity with the Bears' system could provide the team with the reliability they seek moving forward.
Gardner's journey in the NFL is now at a crossroads as he seeks a new opportunity. Despite his initial promise, the transition from college football to the professional level can be challenging, especially for specialists like long snappers who often face immense pressure in critical game situations. The Bears' decision to move on from Gardner underscores the high stakes of performance in the NFL, where even a few missteps can lead to significant changes in the roster.
As the Bears look to rebound from their slow start this season, the addition of Daly may help stabilize their special teams unit. The long snapper position, while often overlooked, plays a crucial role in the success of field goals and extra points, and the Bears will be hoping that Daly can provide the consistency they need to improve their offensive output.
After Further Review
This decision to waive Gardner not only reflects the Bears' immediate needs but also highlights the broader challenges faced by teams in the NFL. Roster decisions are often made quickly, and players must adapt to the high-pressure environment of professional football. For Gardner, this experience serves as a reminder of the competitive nature of the league and the importance of seizing opportunities when they arise. As he looks for a new team, he will need to demonstrate his ability to perform under pressure and regain the confidence of coaches and scouts alike.
The Bears' move to bring in Daly could signal a shift in their approach to special teams as they aim to enhance their overall performance. With the season still in its early stages, there is ample time for the Bears to regroup and find their footing. However, the stakes are high, and every decision made will be scrutinized as they strive to turn their season around and compete effectively in the NFC North.
