Ex-NIU QB, Heisman finalist Jordan Lynch released by Chicago Bears

North Illinois quarterback-turned-Chicago Bears running back Jordan Lynch has been placed on waivers by the NFL team that picked him up.

Lynch, a star quarterback at Northern Illinois, had 18 yards on six carries and played special teams in Thursday's preseason closer. He was a long shot to make Chicago's 53-man roster.

"I made the most of my opportunities," Lynch said. "I got a lot of reps on special teams and that's something new to me. I picked up a first down or two. I thought I ran pretty well."

A Heisman Trophy finalist for the Huskies last season, Lynch was trying to make the Bears as a running back after being signed as an undrafted free agent. He could still wind up on their practice squad if he's not picked up by another team.

The Bears also released receiver Armanti Edwards, tight end Jeron Mastrud, offensive tackle Dennis Roland and center/guard Robert Turner on Friday. Rosters need to be trimmed to 53 by Saturday afternoon.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.