Free Agency Looms for the Chicago Bears
With the NFL free agency period fast approaching, the Chicago Bears find themselves at a critical juncture in shaping their roster for the upcoming season. The team has several important decisions to make, particularly concerning their offensive line, a position group that has faced significant criticism throughout the year. While it might be tempting to let every contract expire and start fresh, doing so could rob the team of valuable players who still have room to grow and contribute. One such player is Teven Jenkins, a young and improving guard whose future with the Bears is a matter of much speculation.
Teven Jenkins: A Tale of Potential and Progress
Teven Jenkins, selected in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft, has had a somewhat tumultuous yet promising journey with the Bears. Drafted as a tackle, he eventually transitioned to guard, where he has shown marked improvement over the past two years. Jenkins’ career has been peppered with injuries, which have undoubtedly hindered his development. However, at just 26 years old, he possesses a blend of skill and resilience that has fans and analysts alike intrigued. His potential to grow and become a cornerstone of the offensive line is a significant factor the Bears must consider as they weigh their options.
Jenkins’ Performance and Projections
In the 2024 season, Jenkins played in 14 of the Bears’ 17 games, a personal best that demonstrated his increasing durability. According to Sports Info Solutions, he has a career 2.2 percent blown block rate, which places him slightly above average among guards. This metric, while not stellar, indicates that Jenkins has the fundamental skills necessary to excel in his role. Additionally, his pass block win rate of 92.0% and run block win rate of 69.3% last season, though average and slightly below average respectively, suggest that he is steadily improving and could become a more consistent performer with the right coaching and support.
The Miami Dolphins Show Interest
On Friday, ESPN’s Aaron Schatz speculated that the Miami Dolphins might be keen on signing Jenkins. The Dolphins have a significant need at guard, with practically every current player in the position group set to become a free agent. Schatz’s projection is based on the Dolphins’ need for a young, talented player at guard. A three-year, $31 million contract, as estimated by Spotrac, seems to be a fair offer that could entice both Jenkins and his potential suitors. The Dolphins’ interest in Jenkins is a clear indication of his value and potential, making it a critical decision for the Bears to either match or let go of one of their promising young linemen.
The Case for Keeping Jenkins
The Bears face a crucial choice: should they make a strong effort to retain Jenkins, or should they focus on building a younger, cheaper group of guards? Keeping Jenkins would send a strong message about the team’s commitment to fostering internal growth and continuity. His familiarity with the Bears’ system and recent improvements make him a valuable asset. Moreover, Jenkins’ experience and physical tools suggest he could be a key player in stabilizing the offensive line and providing much-needed support for rookie quarterback Caleb Williams. The Bears have already invested in Jenkins, and his trajectory indicates that he could become a more productive player with continued development.
Looking to the Future
Ultimately, the decision hinges on the Bears’ long-term strategy and budget considerations. Building a young, cost-effective offensive line could be a smart move if the team is looking to allocate resources elsewhere. However, Jenkins’ potential and recent performance make him a player worth investing in. The Bears must carefully evaluate their needs, weigh the pros and cons, and decide whether keeping Jenkins aligns with their vision for the future. As free agency approaches, the Bears’ front office will need to make tough calls, but the upside of retaining Jenkins could be a significant boon for the team’s offensive prospects in 2025 and beyond.
