Whitehair of the Bears Faces Risk of Ending His Extended Streak as a Starter.
Bears' offensive lineman Cody Whitehair is under the spotlight this Sunday. Since 2016, he's been a steadfast presence, starting all 113 games he's been part of. With a $14.1 million salary cap hit, he's the NFL's second-highest-paid interior lineman. However, his place leading rookie QB Tyson Bagent is uncertain due to recent snap issues and apparent diminished performance.
Last week, amid snapping troubles, Whitehair was benched during the game against Minnesota. Pro Football Focus (PFF) showcases Lucas Patrick as center, with Ja'Tyre Carter and Teven Jenkins as guards, placing the Bears' offensive line 25th in the league. Carter's performance has notably been commendable.
Whitehair's adaptability between guard and center roles has been notable. Yet, recent PFF rankings show him slipping: 73rd out of 80 for guards this season. In 2020, he ranked high, but in 2021 he ended in the lower half.
The strategy involving Whitehair for the upcoming games remains uncertain. Observations from a recent practice saw various players taking snaps at center, suggesting possible changes.
Whitehair, a recognized locker room leader, has another year on his 2019 contract. Before signing his five-year, $51.5 million extension, he adapted his contract to aid the Bears' cap space. His cap hit next year stands at $13.25 million, but the guarantees have ended. If replaced, the Bears would incur a $4,104,000 cap penalty in 2024.
GM Ryan Poles may be considering trading Whitehair before the October 31st deadline. However, with a season left on his contract, the market might be limited. The Bears face a tough decision unless Whitehair reestablishes his consistent performance.
| POLL | ||
20 OCTOBRE | 35 ANSWERS Whitehair of the Bears Faces Risk of Ending His Extended Streak as a Starter. Is Cody Whitehaire done? | ||
| Yes | 24 | 68.6 % |
| No | 11 | 31.4 % |
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