Teven Jenkins Shares Concerning News on Contract Talks
Bears Face Dilemma Without a Backup Plan for Jenkins
Teven Jenkins is heading into the final year of his rookie contract with the Chicago Bears in 2024, yet his commitment to the team remains unwavering since they drafted him in the second round of the 2021 NFL Draft.
«I want to be a Bear for a long time,» Jenkins told 670 The Score in his May 9 interview.
Turning 26 in March, Jenkins might be the Bears' most crucial free agent in the 2025 offseason. Despite injury setbacks during his first three seasons, he has developed into a dominant run-blocker and is versatile enough to start at either guard position, making him a key asset for the Bears' offensive line.
Currently, Jenkins acknowledges he is playing "the waiting game" with Chicago. The Bears likely want to see if he can complete a season injury-free before entering into serious contract extension talks. Meanwhile, Jenkins is focused on leading the offensive line and improving his performance.
«What I got from my agent, we had to wait until after the draft, is all I know,» Jenkins said about contract negotiations with the Bears. «We're going to try to reach out to them here soon, but right now, we're playing the waiting game. I want to be a Bear for a long time. I still do. That has not changed since I've been drafted. But we're going to see how things unfold and how things play out and just take it day by day.
«I'm just going to try to be a great leader for the O-line room and a great player for the team.»
The Bears have significant concerns about Jenkins' long-term value heading into the 2024 season. While he showed potential as a starting guard last season, missing 20 games over three seasons raises serious injury concerns. Without substantial improvement, it will be tough to justify offering him a top-tier guard salary.
Compounding their dilemma, the Bears lack a clear succession plan if they decide not to re-sign Jenkins. They released Cody Whitehair and Lucas Patrick in the 2024 offseason, leaving 2022 seventh-round pick Ja'Tyre Carter as the only returning guard aside from Jenkins and fellow starter Nate Davis. They have added Ryan Bates, Coleman Shelton, and rookie Kiran Amegadjie, but Bates and Shelton are likely vying for the center position, while Amegadjie is starting as a swing tackle.
Davis, too, could become an issue. Despite only giving up one sack in 2023, he allowed a team-high seven quarterback hits and 29 pressures in 384 pass-blocking snaps, while also missing six games due to a high-ankle sprain. If he fails to improve in 2024, the Bears might consider cutting him in 2025, complicating their decision regarding Jenkins even further.
### Potential Cap Space Relief for Jenkins' Contract
Fortunately, Jenkins could simplify the situation. If he performs well, the Bears have an estimated $58.8 million in projected cap space for 2025, providing ample room to sign him to a lucrative extension. As long as he meets performance benchmarks, it benefits both parties to extend his contract beyond 2024.
The Bears don't have many other high-priority free agents in 2025, aside from Jenkins. Keenan Allen, a six-time Pro Bowl wide receiver, is the only other notable name, and the Bears will likely evaluate his 2024 performance before committing additional funds.
In essence, Jenkins' future with the Bears hinges on his upcoming season. If he can stay healthy and continue to excel, a long-term deal seems likely, ensuring his place as a cornerstone of the Bears' offensive line.
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| POLL | ||
25 MAI | 55 ANSWERS Teven Jenkins Shares Concerning News on Contract Talks Should the Bears offer Teven Jenkins a long-term contract? | ||
| Yes | 34 | 61.8 % |
| No | 21 | 38.2 % |
| List of polls | ||
