The Chicago Bears had 11 days between their Thursday night game against Washington and Monday night in New England to make changes. Head coach Matt Eberflus hinted that significant evaluations would happen during that time off to determine if adjustments were needed in the starting lineup. That included the offensive line, fresh off surrendering five sacks against the Commanders. Eberflus didn’t make any commitments publicly, but there was a definite indication it was being considered.
Most agree that center and left guard are the two spots in most need of changes. Sam Mustipher has struggled over the past three weeks. It’s apparent his limitations in pass protection are a big issue. The time might be suitable to shift Lucas Patrick into that spot since he hasn’t been much help at guard anyway. With Cody Whitehair still out with a knee injury, that leaves a void at left guard. Adam Hoge of CHGO suggested an unexpected name could be in play there.
“The wild card though is Alex Leatherwood, the 2021 first-round pick the Bears claimed off of waivers from the Raiders in September. He recently returned to practice after dealing with mononucleosis, but it’s unclear how prepared he is in this new system with the practice time he missed. Leatherwood might ultimately be the Bears’ best option at left guard.”
The Chicago Bears claimed Leatherwood for a reason.
They clearly felt his talent as a former 1st round pick was worth exploring. What isn’t known for certain is what they see him as. Experts are split on that. Some believe his best spot remains at tackle, and the Las Vegas Raiders just did a poor job developing him. Others think a move inside to guard would serve him better. He played both spots during his rookie season, but on the right side instead of the left.
The results were mixed. He had some outright brutal performances at guard. However, he was showing some improvement by the end of the season. It is worth noting Leatherwood spent most of his college career on the left side of the offensive line. So a shift to left guard might feel more natural for him.
Subscribe to the BFR podcast and ride shotgun with Dave and Ficky as they break down Bears football like nobody else.
Does that mean he could play Monday night? No. The mono episode likely set back his timetable in the Chicago Bears’ eyes. They still have plans for him but won’t throw the guy out there with minimal preparation. It is more likely he’ll get an opportunity once the team is officially out of the playoff picture by mid-November.
What’s the deal with Reiff? I would much rather have an established veteran shuffled in rather than rushing in Leatherwood. Maybe he’s a viable 2023 starter but assuming he’s the answer now after minimal active time with the Bears is a huge stretch.
The Bears management is finally realizing without a great offensive line all other offensive stars are irrelevant. Why do the Bears bother looking for a great receiver when to paraphrase Joe Theismann Justin Fields is always lying on his back? Create a Super Bowl quality offensive line first. All other priorities are secondary; the blind side et al not number one priority, the team is a loser
Roger – copy all.
I believe he came out of the accident “fine”. The only concern was him possibly being unconscious at some point, which could cause speculation to a possible concussion. But if he is not in concussion protocol, and he is practicing, then I assume all is good there.
Watcher – the report I saw said a woman was taken to the hospital and Leatherwood was unconscious at the scene. I’m not in the Chicago area and thought there may be some reports in the local outlets.