The Chicago Bears have tried to settle their offensive line issues since GM Ryan Poles took over. Their efforts to this point can best be called a mixed bag. Braxton Jones and Darnell Wright look like keepers at offensive tackle. Unfortunately, the same can’t said for their interior spots. Teven Jenkins has been plagued by health issues since arriving in 2023. Coleman Shelton didn’t have the best debut at center last week. Nate Davis also has health problems and suffers from inconsistency. It was one of the big reasons GM Ryan Poles traded for veteran Ryan Bates from Buffalo.
He had considerable starting experience at right guard and could offer quality insurance if Davis’ problems continued. Sadly, that plan is out the window now. Chicago announced on Saturday that Bates is going on Injured Reserve with shoulder and elbow injuries.
They had hoped to continue a rotation this week between him and Bates to see which might secure the job. Obviously, those plans are on hold for the next four weeks. It isn’t a surprise things went this way. Shoulder injuries are always problematic for offensive linemen. They can linger for weeks or even months. Add an elbow problem on top of that, and IR was probably the only option. This should give Bates time to let both ailments heal rather than risk aggravating them with ongoing physical play in the trenches.
With him out, the Chicago Bears only have one option. They must roll the dice with Davis. For all his problems, he is now the unquestioned best choice on the roster for right guard. Matt Pryor and Bill Murry had solid preseason performances, but neither is close to his physical capability. They could look to add somebody on the free agent market, though finding a possible starter this time of year is almost impossible.
