After 13 years, the Bears have announced they will move on from star linebacker Brian Urlacher.
The deadline passed this afternoon without a deal and the 34-year-old is free to seek employment elsewhere.
This development confirms speculation that the Bears and Urlacher were not on common ground throughout negotiations.
Reports say Urlacher sought at least a two-year deal worth $5 million per year, while the Bears only had enough cap room for $4 million per year.
The eight-time Pro Bowler started 180 games from 2000 through 2012, recording a team-record 1,779 tackles.
The ninth overall selection in the 2000 draft has 41.5 sacks, 22 interceptions, 16 fumble recoveries and 11 forced fumbles.
He was the AP's defensive player of the year in 2005.
Bears Chairman Brian McCaskey says the team wished its "humble superstar" the best.