The Chicago Bears’ offense has struggled during the first week of training camp, largely due to poor performance from the offensive line. This has been a persistent issue for the past few seasons and needs immediate attention. With a rookie quarterback coming into play this season, the Bears’ offensive line must provide better protection and eliminate sloppy performance. A key member of the offensive line, Teven Jenkins, is due for an extension, which should be addressed soon.
Glaring Issue The Chicago Bears Must Address
Teven Jenkins’ Contract Situation
Despite his history of injuries, Teven Jenkins is the Bears’ best offensive lineman when healthy, making him indispensable. As Jenkins becomes a free agent next season, it is crucial for General Manager Ryan Poles to secure a deal with him soon. Reports suggest that the Bears plan to delay negotiations with Jenkins until later in the season, which is perplexing given his importance. Last season, Jenkins was one of the NFL’s top guards, ranking fifth in zone-run grade according to PFF, and allowed only 11 hurries and 17 pressures, among the lowest for offensive guards with 11+ starts.
#Bears LG Teven Jenkins among all guards in 2023:
• 72.6 PFF grade (15th)
• 85.7 zone-run grade (5th)
• 71.7 total run grade (14th)
• 11 hurries (T-2nd fewest for OGs with 11+ starts)
• 17 pressures (T-3rd fewest)All while switching positions midseason. He's legit. pic.twitter.com/wVW5nWiEM9
— Jacob Infante (@jacobinfante24) June 7, 2024
Jenkins brings the physicality the Bears’ offensive line desperately needs. His value extends beyond being an elite offensive lineman; the Bears also lack depth on the o-line. The only viable backups are Ryan Bates, Ja’Tyre Carter, and third-round pick Kiran Amegadije. Losing Jenkins could spell significant trouble for the Bears.
Teven Jenkins Projected Contract: 3 years, $46.5 million ($27.5 million guaranteed)
Learning From Past Mistakes
The Bears should not let Jenkins leave in free agency. The benefits of keeping him far outweigh the cons, and the Bears should learn from past mistakes. For example, in 2022, the Bears allowed former second-round pick James Daniels to sign with the Pittsburgh Steelers for a three-year, $26.5 million contract. Daniels was a talented and versatile guard, only 24 at the time. His presence would be invaluable now, especially given the issues with Nate Davis, who frequently misses practices and signed a three-year, $30 million contract last season.
Improving the Offensive Line
Head Coach Matt Eberflus acknowledges the need for improvement in the offensive line. “It’s got to be all three phases hitting on all cylinders, and we’re just not there yet,” said Eberflus. “Of course, it’s early in training camp, and I don’t expect us to be. But I do expect us to grow and learn from this and get better.” Although it’s early in the season, and the Bears’ offensive line is practicing against one of the better defenses, addressing the issues on the o-line is crucial. Besides re-signing Jenkins, the Bears should consider adding help to bolster the offensive line. Veteran free agents like David Bakhtiari, Connor Williams, Matt Feiler, and Mark Glowinski are potential options to improve the o-line.
