Two-Time Champ, Ex-$41M LT Touted as Bears' Replacement for Jones
The Chicago Bears opted not to draft a top-tier left tackle prospect to replace starter Braxton Jones, leaving room for a veteran free agent to step in if needed.
During a late third-round pick in last month's draft, Bears' General Manager Ryan Poles chose Kiran Amegadjie from Yale at No. 75. Amegadjie's development will be crucial, especially since he is expected to protect quarterback Caleb Williams, the No. 1 overall pick. This decision may seem insufficient for a key position like left tackle.
In a discussion on "The Bill Barnwell Show," Bill Barnwell and Robert Mays of The Athletic reviewed the Bears' approach. Barnwell suggested that veteran lineman Donovan Smith, who recently won a Super Bowl with the Kansas City Chiefs and previously with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, could be a fitting addition to Chicago's roster.
The conversation focused on whether the Bears are sufficiently prepared at the tackle position for the upcoming seasons. Mays felt confident with the current setup, praising Jones' performance and the potential in Amegadjie. Conversely, Barnwell was critical, questioning whether the duo of Jones and Amegadjie would suffice, particularly as Williams' career progresses.
Mays defended the draft strategy, appreciating the choice of a high-potential player like Amegadjie who could mature into a starting left tackle. Barnwell, however, expressed concerns about the short-term effectiveness and the future readiness of the pair.
Two weeks later, Barnwell proposed a scenario where Smith could join the New England Patriots, a team also in need of tackle support. He paralleled the situation in New England with that of the Bears, suggesting that Chicago might benefit from securing Smith on a cost-effective, short-term deal.
Smith, at 31, recently signed a modest $3 million contract with Kansas City after more lucrative deals with Tampa Bay. Spotrac estimates his market value at around $5.1 million annually over a two-year period, making him an attractive and affordable option for tackle-needy teams like the Bears.
| POLL | ||
16 MAI | 82 ANSWERS Two-Time Champ, Ex-$41M LT Touted as Bears' Replacement for Jones Should the Bears sign Donovan Smith as a left tackle? | ||
| Yes | 52 | 63.4 % |
| No | 30 | 36.6 % |
| List of polls | ||
