Wednesday, March 27, 2024

David Montgomery Admits He Hopes Bears Stick With Teven Jenkins

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David Montgomery is a running back. Much of his success relies on the offensive line being able to open holes for him. That hasn’t always been easy over the past three years. The Chicago Bears have done a poor job cultivating their front five, leading to struggles offensively. Montgomery is averaging 3.9 yards per carry for his career. That would be even lower if he weren’t so good at breaking tackles.

Former defensive end Chris Long once said the Bears lacked physicality on offense. It’s fair to wonder if Montgomery sensed the same thing. That might be why he had positive words to say about Teven Jenkins. The former 2nd round pick recently shifted from right tackle to right guard. His performance in Seattle was enough to retain the starting job for another week. From how Montgomery talks, it sounds like he’s hoping the young blocker stays where he is. The Bears have a glaring need for more like him.

The guy isn’t wrong.

One of the reasons the Bears loved Jenkins in the first place was his mixture of power and nastiness. He loved imposing his will on defensive linemen, driving them into the turf every chance he got. GM Ryan Poles said he wants players that are more violent when blocking. Jenkins fits the bill. That is why it was unusual to hear him surrounded by trade rumors for the past month. Perhaps that still comes to pass.

Montgomery sounds like he hopes not. Jenkins brings something to the table he likes. When one guy is willing to play with that mauler mentality, it can infect others. That is why Kyle Long was such a fabulous presence for the Bears during his peak years. He set the tone with his attitude. It wasn’t a coincidence the team had two 1300-yard rushers in his first four seasons.

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David Montgomery needs all the help he can get.

While most see 2022 as a rebuilding year for the Bears, the running back has way more to play for. He is in the final year of his rookie contract. He’ll be a free agent next off-season. That means he must play well to secure a long-term extension. The new coaching staff isn’t sure if he fits their new wide-zone offense. They aren’t going to throw big money at a player they aren’t sure about. That is especially true when running backs aren’t difficult to replace.

If David Montgomery wants a new deal, he must show the ability to be something more. Jenkins could help him in that quest. Though inexperienced, the young blocker is arguably the most talented player on the offensive line. If he can make the transition to guard work, the Bears may have a group that can create lots of space in the ground game.

Montgomery isn’t stupid.

He sees the potential like everybody else. A subtle nod of approval in front of the media might sway the coaches towards the right decision. If it helps the team while also helping him cash in, there is no harm. Either way, Jenkins clearly has fans in the building despite the rocky past few weeks.

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Jason
Jason
Aug 22, 2022 5:36 pm

I stand corrected Jester. I forgot Chris was a defensive end. I actually forgot about Chris completely, much like I try to forget about that wildcard loss.

Jason
Jason
Aug 22, 2022 5:19 pm

You’re correct Jester. I was wrong

Lou
Lou
Aug 22, 2022 2:32 pm

Jester/Jason,
After Da BEARS 2019 Home Wild Card playoff game loss, the Eagles DE Chris Long (brother of Kyle) said our O-Line lacked physicality. 🐻⬇️

Last edited 1 year ago by Lou
Jester
Jester
Aug 22, 2022 1:10 pm

Jason
Chris Long was a defensive end
Kyle Long his brother was an offensive guard.

Jason
Jason
Aug 22, 2022 1:00 pm

Erik, C’mon man. Chris Long was a guard, not a defensive end.

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