Bears guard Jenkins to prove he can stay on the field and avoid injuries

Chicago Bears offensive tackle Teven Jenkins (76) pictured during an NFL football game against the Washington Commanders, Thursday, October 5, 2023 in Landover, Maryland. (AP Photo/Daniel Kucin Jr.)
AP

This week we’re counting down the top five Bears players with something to prove in 2024. They could be rookies who haven’t played an NFL snap yet, or they could be veterans looking to show more.

As NFL players like to say, they go out every season to prove themselves. NFL contracts are not always guaranteed. The star quarterbacks may have long-term security, but not every player on the roster is so lucky.

Here’s a look at No. 2 on the list of top Bears players with something to prove. Check back Friday to see who tops the list.

No. 2 Females Jenkins

Position: Left guard

Experience: Fourth season

Looking back: Not long ago, Bears offensive lineman Teven Jenkins didn’t know if he had a future in Chicago. Just two years ago, Jenkins entered training camp as a third-string tackle with no clear path to the starting lineup. Jenkins, a second-round pick in 2021, spent most of his rookie season injured. The Bears then fired the coach and general manager who drafted him.

When Matt Eberflus and Ryan Poles took over, it was unclear how Jenkins would fit into their plans. That is, until they took him to the Guard. In a new position, Jenkins skyrocketed the depth chart, starting 11 games in 2022. Last year, he moved positions again, this time from right guard to left guard.

When healthy, Jenkins was one of the team’s best offensive linemen. He is a beast in the run game and playing guard suits him in pass protection. He has also become an integral part of the team as a personality and leader. His teammates love him and everyone in the organization respected the way he handled himself when his future was in doubt.

The biggest blow to his game is injuries. He never played more than thirteen games in his first three seasons. Last season’s injuries were minor, but they still kept him out of five games.

Look forward to something: Jenkins, 26, will enter the final year of his four-year rookie contract in 2024. He and his agent have already contacted Poland about a contract extension, but no deal is on the table, Jenkins said this spring. This season will be a big one for Jenkins. His future with the team is up in the air.

Whether it’s fair or not, his health is going to play a huge role in whether he deserves a new contract in Chicago. Jenkins is well aware of this.

“Stay healthy,” Jenkins said this spring. “That’s No. 1 and of the utmost importance to me right now. Stay healthy, play all seventeen games and continue my strong play from last year and be a more consistent, reliable guy.”

Jenkins doesn’t necessarily have to play all seventeen games to earn a contract extension, but he does have to avoid major injuries. It is expected that he will remain at left back in 2024, where he played last season. This will be the first time he plays the same position in consecutive NFL seasons. The Bears hope this consistency will be good for Jenkins.

If he stays healthy and plays like he did last season, an extension should be a no-brainer for the Bears.