The Chicago Bears have kept their true motives on Teven Jenkins unclear for the past few weeks. It seemed like he was a prominent trade candidate at one point. He’d been demoted at tackle and missed several early practices in training camp. Then they decided on a risky move to shift him inside to guard. It was felt that might fit his skillset better. Many were shocked at how quickly he took to the new position.
Across two preseason games, Jenkins allowed only one pressure on the quarterback. He also showcased his athleticism and power in the running game. Still, national insiders continued to insist a trade was possible. Those rumors came crashing down on Tuesday. Hours before the deadline for final cuts, the Bears sent the clearest possible signal that Jenkins is not only staying on the roster but also the favorite to start opening day at right guard.
The #Bears waived veteran OL Michael Schofield, per source.
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) August 30, 2022
Teven Jenkins deserved a chance to realize his potential.
Nobody knows why the Bears demoted him. There were rumors of personality issues. He and offensive line coach Chris Morgan were having problems. It may have been they didn’t like him at tackle. They felt they couldn’t trust the 24-year-old in pass protection. Some coaching staffs may have washed their hands of the situation. Matt Eberflus decided to work the problem in another way. That is where the shift to guard came in.
Subscribe to the BFR Youtube channel and ride shotgun with Dave and Ficky as they break down Bears football like nobody else.
Despite his shortcomings at tackle, Teven Jenkins is arguably the most talented blocker the Bears have. He’s big, powerful, and athletic. Throwing somebody like that away without doing everything possible to help them develop is irresponsible. So they presented him with a new challenge. Jenkins, to his credit, accepted it. Inexperienced as he was, the guy jumped in with both feet and didn’t look out of place during both of his preseason starts.
The fact Chicago gave up a veteran like Schofield with his years of experience is telling. They’re confident in what Jenkins can become and are willing to give him the chance.
