It looked like the Chicago Bears offensive line was staring down a nightmare scenario ahead of their matchup in Arizona against the Cardinals. Not only is left tackle Braxton Jones out with a knee injury but primary backup Kiran Amegadjie is also out due to a calf problem. It looked like they would have to go into that game with practice squad member Jake Curhan or maybe shift Teven Jenkins or Matt Pryor to the outside. That would’ve left Caleb Williams in a dangerous spot on the road against a well-coached defense.
Thankfully, good fortune is on their side. Right as the injuries to Jones and Amegadjie hit, long-time backup Larry Borom was activated from Injured Reserve. He started six games at left tackle for the Bears last season. While he wasn’t anything special, he held his own for the most part. His experience will be a welcome presence at that spot in a game the Bears know they have to win. This will be a big opportunity for Borom, who can put some recent tape out there as he prepares for free agency next season.
The Chicago Bears offensive line built quality depth.
Some wondered why GM Ryan Poles opted to keep Borom. The truth isn’t hard to figure out. Amegadjie was a rookie who hadn’t played a snap for months since suffering a quad injury his final year at Yale. That left the depth behind Jones and Darnell Wright too questionable. Now, a few months later, that decision has a chance to pay off huge. Borom hasn’t always had fun finding his place under the new Bears regime. Still, it is clear they see him as a worthwhile part of the roster.
The good news is he won’t be facing the stiffest test in his return. While Arizona is well-coached, their pass rush is notoriously one of the worst in the NFL. They have 15 sacks in eight games. That is tied for fifth-worst in the league. All of their primary edge rushers are undersized. Borom should have mismatches in that regard. He will have to make sure he’s ready for their speed. The Chicago Bears offensive line should be able to navigate this game without too many hassles.
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