Bears sign nose tackle Bruce Gaston off Packers’ practice squad

The Bears have signed nose tackle Bruce Gaston off the Packers’ practice squad, sources told the Sun-Times on Saturday. He’s expected to play Sunday in Detroit against the Lions.

Gaston, who is 6-2, 310 pounds, appeared in two games this season for the Packers, making one tackle. The second-year lineman was waived on Oct. 3 and re-signed to the Packers’ practice squad three days later.

The Bears have a need on the defensive line. Ego Ferguson is doubtful for the Lions game because of a nagging knee injury, while Will Sutton (elbow) and Jeremiah Ratliff (ankle) are listed as questionable.

Gaston has promise and local ties. He was a Sun-Times All-Area selection at St. Rita before becoming a four-year starter at Purdue.

Saturday also wasn’t his first time at Halas Hall. In May 2014, Gaston took part in the Bears’ local pro day. He was then invited back by former general manager Phil Emery for more in-depth meetings with coaches.

Gaston went undrafted and opted to sign with Cardinals as a rookie free agent. He spent the 2014 training camp with the Cardinals. He was later claimed off waivers by Patriots and then the Dolphins.

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Email: ajahns@suntimes.com