The Chicago Bears are 2-7. They once again look like one of the worst teams in the NFL. Plenty of reasons go into this. Their quarterback situation remains an evergreen mess. Head coach Matt Eberflus and his staff seem woefully inadequate to the assigned task. The pass rush still can’t get to the quarterback. All of these factors indicate a team that is devoid of high-end talent. Yet the truth is never that simple. A closer inspection says the Bears have plenty of standout players. There are even one or two that deserve consideration for the Pro Bowl.
Jaylon Johnson is probably one that comes immediately to mind. D.J. Moore is another. However, there is one name that is rapidly gaining steam on this front. That is Teven Jenkins. Bears fans already knew the former 2nd round pick had found a home at guard last season, displaying flashes of pure dominance. Those flashes have become a regular, everyday occurrence this season. He played one of his best games on Sunday in New Orleans, bullying the Saints both as a run blocker and pass protector.
Chicago Bears will have an interesting decision if Jenkins finishes strong.
The only reason Jenkins may not get the nod at this point is because he missed four games with a calf injury. Yet when he’s been on the field, the guy is a terror. He’s allowed only six total pressures in five games, and three of those pressures came in the loss to L.A. If that weren’t enough, he is also the 7th-highest-rated run blocker among all guards in the NFL, according to Pro Football Focus. The guy is the total package. Only one reason he’s not discussed among the league’s best right now is because he’s struggled to stay healthy.
There are eight games left. If Jenkins can keep up this pace down the stretch, GM Ryan Poles will have a decision to make. The 2024 season will be the last of his rookie contract. One would think the Bears should start broaching the subject of a contract extension. Guys with his level of talent on the offensive line are invaluable, but the injury history will complicate things. The Chicago Bears would be wise to build some protections into any deal they offer. One thing is for sure.
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Jenkins’ leverage would skyrocket if he gets the Pro Bowl nod he may soon deserve.
