The Chicago Bears offensive line has one track record that has remained consistent for years. It can’t stay healthy. Every year it feels like guys are missing several games. Braxton Jones starting every snap in 2022 was a considerable shock. Having watched what is happening to the team in the past two weeks, it’s easy to understand why. Cody Whitehair is dealing with a hand injury that leaves his status in limbo. Now Teven Jenkins is also hurt again, dealing with two calf strains that have him “week-to-week,” according to head coach Matt Eberflus.
If that weren’t bad enough, now 1st round pick Darnell Wright is dealing with an unknown ailment. The right tackle was spotted limping off the practice field on Tuesday. Initial theories are it’s an ankle issue, but Eberflus declined to comment, citing a lack of information. All of this comes on top of Nate Davis and Lucas Patrick also missing extensive time with their own injuries. This team’s projected starting five offensive linemen have barely practiced together all summer. It is a concern.
It’s uncanny how this seems to happen every year. Keeping a starting five relatively intact for a full season has been an impossible task for them. All one can do is wonder if it will ever get better. The good news is Davis has returned to practice. Patrick is close to getting the green light for full work. Whitehair remains at practice despite his hand issue. Jenkins is the only significant loss unlikely to play in the opener against Green Bay. This is pending an update on what is going on with Wright. Losing him would be a crushing blow, especially with how well he’s practiced and played.
Thankfully the regular season doesn’t begin until September 10th. That is 19 days away. That gives Wright and everybody else just under three weeks to heal up. If the lower leg issue isn’t severe, he should be ready to go by then. Otherwise, the Chicago Bears will have to look toward Larry Borom to fill the void at right tackle. He has played really well in the preseason, so that isn’t a huge concern, but it doesn’t do much for line continuity. If Justin Fields hopes to take off this year, he needs reliable protection.
