They say offensive linemen are boring to watch compared to other positions like quarterback, wide receiver, and running back. Well, the response to that is simple. You haven’t been looking in the right places. Probably one of the most enjoyable watches of the entire 2021 draft cycle was Oklahoma State tackle Teven Jenkins. The same guy the Chicago Bears traded up to get in the 2nd round.
Jenkins does a lot of the typical stuff future starters in the NFL do. He’s solid with his fundamentals, shows quick, disciplined feet, and a strong anchor against power. There aren’t many things that get past him. Yet that isn’t what makes him fun to watch. It’s what he morphs into when run blocking. The best translation is a hulking troll who wishes to punish you for trying to cross his bridge.
Many defenders paid that price in 2020 alone.
One person who couldn’t get enough of watching his tape? Former Indianapolis Colts All-Pro center Jeff Saturday. The six-time Pro Bowler appeared on ESPN’s Get Up to put Jenkins through a segment he calls “Sat ‘Em Down.” A highlight reel of an offensive lineman delivering pancake blocks to defenders. What immediately stood out with Jenkins was the sheer volume. Saturday just couldn’t get enough.
Quite a clinic, isn’t it? Jenkins demonstrates two things in those clips. His substantial power and his unbridled nastiness. The guy plays mean. He’ll knock you to the ground and then make sure to give you a little extra. Just so you don’t forget it. Jenkins is a tone-setter. He loves to be the aggressor. The one to send a message to the defense that you better be ready for 60 minutes of pain.
Subscribe to the BFR Youtube channel and ride shotgun with Dave and Ficky as they break down Bears football like nobody else.
The Bears knew Teven Jenkins was somebody they needed
Over the past two years, it was evident the offensive line lacked punch. Too often it was the opposing defense that was dictating the tempo of games. They controlled the line of scrimmage and too often came across as the bully. How does one counter that? By putting bullies of your own up front. Chicago used to have one in Kyle Long but injuries ended his tenure in Chicago.
With the arrival of Teven Jenkins, they finally have somebody who isn’t afraid to be the street fighter of the group. The guy is willing to use any and all tactics to protect his quarterback and impose his will in the run game. One of the biggest criticisms of the Bears’ offense the past few years was their lack of physicality. Teams may start changing their opinions on that with him in the lineup.
What makes it even more exciting?
The Bears are so confident in his ability that they are sliding him over to left tackle. A position he rarely played in college. It’s a strong statement. Having the best and toughest blocker on your offensive line in that spot can often change the complexion of an entire blocking unit. Jenkins loved humbling defenders in college. One can only imagine he’ll embrace it even more in Chicago. A city that rewards being mean.