The Chicago Bears got their most pressing contract situations out of the way this off-season. Montez Sweat got his payday four days after arriving last October. Jaylon Johnson got his before the start of free agency. At first glance, most would think Keenan Allen is the only remaining big name with a contract issue since he’s a free agent next year. However, Teven Jenkins might have him beat. For one, he’s younger than Allen. For another, he’s the best interior blocker the Bears have. One would think securing him is a priority.
Unfortunately, Jenkins is a unique case. Chicago has resisted the urge to engage him in extension talks due to concerns about his availability over the past three years. Jenkins has missed 20 games over that span. Things took another interesting turn when the guard added more details to the situation at his latest presser. According to his agents, the Bears are not considering any discussions about a new deal until after their bye week of October 20th. Such a deadline feels unusual.
It is the primary sticking point, for sure, but holding off on talks for the first six games of the season feels odd. Then again, it could be an excellent sample size to see if Jenkins has improved his overall game. Jenkins was by far their highest-rated run blocker in 2023. Whenever they had big moments on the ground, he was a central part of it. Pass protection was a different story. Last season was Jenkins’ shakiest on that front. In 177 snaps of one-on-one matchups, he allowed 13 pressures, including three sacks. Greg Van Roten in Las Vegas allowed 15 pressures in 288 snaps for context.
Remember, the Bears’ top priority is safeguarding quarterback Caleb Williams. Interior pressure has been a sore spot for the offensive line going back years. There are games where Teven Jenkins is terrific, but then he disappears. Lack of consistency and his health issues make it tough for the team to justify giving him a big payday. Those first six games might provide answers one way or another. If he plays them all without a health setback and shows improvement in his protection, they may open the door to negotiations.
If he doesn’t? They may start the ball rolling on searching for a replacement next off-season.
