As the Chicago Bears continue their organizational transformation under general manager Ryan Poles, one theme has emerged: build from the trenches. After acquiring key talent on both sides of the ball through the draft and free agency, Poles now turns inward, focusing on retaining foundational pieces. At the top of that list? Offensive lineman Teven Jenkins, whose contract extension is reportedly a “priority” for the Bears’ front office entering the 2025 season.
A Versatile Asset in the Trenches
Drafted in the second round of the 2021 NFL Draft out of Oklahoma State, Teven Jenkins came into the league as a promising tackle. However, it was his transition to guard that unlocked his full potential. Over the past two seasons, Jenkins has emerged as one of Chicago’s most consistent and versatile linemen, anchoring the interior and showing the ability to swing outside in a pinch.
Despite battling injuries in his early years, Jenkins has rebounded to become a critical part of the Bears’ offensive identity. In 2024, he played in 15 games, earning a Pro Football Focus (PFF) grade of 78.4, which ranked among the top-15 guards in the NFL.
Ryan Poles, a former offensive lineman himself, has consistently emphasized the importance of building a team from the inside out. With a young quarterback in Caleb Williams and a retooled offensive line that includes first-round pick Olu Fashanu and 2023 first-rounder Darnell Wright, keeping Jenkins locked in is part of a broader plan to ensure long-term protection and cohesion.
Why the Extension Makes Sense
There are several reasons why extending Teven Jenkins makes perfect sense for both parties:
1. System Fit and Chemistry
Jenkins fits seamlessly in new offensive coordinator Shane Waldron’s scheme, which values agile, powerful interior linemen who can pull, climb to the second level, and pass protect effectively. He has built strong chemistry with center Doug Kramer and right guard Nate Davis, helping solidify the middle of the line.
2. Leadership and Physicality
Jenkins has become a tone-setter on the field. His nasty streak, ability to finish blocks, and vocal leadership have endeared him to teammates and coaches. He embodies the physical, blue-collar identity that Matt Eberflus wants in his team.
3. Cost-Effective Stability
Locking up Jenkins before he hits free agency in 2026 could result in a more team-friendly deal. Given the rising cost of starting-caliber linemen, especially those under 30 with positional flexibility, extending him now ensures stability at a manageable price.
What Might the Extension Look Like?
Based on recent contracts for guards of similar age and ability, Jenkins could command a deal in the range of $12-14 million per year over three to four years. Comparables include:
- Jonah Jackson (Lions): 3 years, $36 million
- Robert Hunt (Panthers): 5 years, $100 million (more inflated due to free agency bidding)
- Dalton Risner (Vikings): 2 years, $8 million (lower-tier, depth starter)
Given Jenkins’ upside and position as a starter on a young, ascending team, a 4-year, $50 million deal with guarantees in the $25 million range seems realistic.
Impact on the Caleb Williams Era
One of the biggest reasons Poles is pushing for an extension now is to preserve continuity for Caleb Williams, the franchise’s newly-minted quarterback. Rookie quarterbacks thrive behind stable offensive lines. By locking in Jenkins, Poles sends a clear message: this line won’t be shuffled every offseason. Williams will be protected, and the offensive core will remain intact.
It also reduces the need to chase additional OL help in free agency or the draft, allowing the team to target other areas in the years to come.
Challenges and Risks
Despite the upside, there are some variables:
- Injury History: Jenkins has missed time due to back and neck injuries. Though healthy in 2024, medical evaluations will be critical.
- Cap Management: While the Bears have cap flexibility now, big deals for Caleb Williams and Rome Odunze loom in the future. Every dollar matters.
- Sample Size: Jenkins has been solid, but hasn’t put together multiple full seasons. The front office will need to decide whether the upside outweighs the inconsistency.
