LAKE FOREST, Ill. — The Chicago Bears have released veteran defensive end Alex Brown.

The Bears had tried to trade Brown after signing Julius Peppers.

The 31-year-old Brown was a fourth-round selection by the Bears in 2002 out of Florida. He was slated to make $5 million this season.

For Chicago, he appeared in 127 career games, including 107 starts, in eight seasons. He had 483 tackles, 43½ sacks, five interceptions, 16 forced fumbled and 11 fumble recoveries. He also blocked three kicks.

Mark Anderson, who had strong rookie season in 2006 with 12 sacks, could now be the starter. The Bears also intend to move Israel Idonije from tackle to defensive end.