CHICAGO — The Chicago Bears released former Pro Bowl wide receiver Muhsin Muhammad today, cutting the veteran after three seasons.

Chicago also gave defensive end Alex Brown a two-year contract extension.

Muhammad spent his first nine seasons with the Carolina Panthers and made two Pro Bowls, but was released in February 2005 after setting career-highs with 1,405 yards and 16 touchdowns. He immediately signed a six-year contract with the Bears, but his numbers dropped dramatically in Chicago.

He caught 40 passes for 570 yards and three touchdowns last season, and given his age — he turns 35 in May — the move wasn't shocking.

Muhammad's best season with the Bears was in 2006, when had 860 yards and five touchdowns while helping the Bears reach the Super Bowl. That was an improvement over his first season in Chicago (750 yards and four touchdowns), but nothing like his final season with the Panthers.

Brown, who finished with 58 tackles last season, had two years left on his contract.

Agent Joel Segal, who represents both players, did not immediately return a call seeking comment.