Key Takeaways:
– Jenkins plans to remain with the Bears and is set to enter discussions about a potential contract extension.
– The Bears lack a back-up plan in case Jenkins leaves, raising questions about their negotiation strategy.
– Jenkins’ excellent performance could ease the extension process, with sufficient cap space available for the Bears to offer him a new contract.
– Despite being a major free agent in 2024, Keenan Allen, a six-time Pro Bowl wide receiver, is unlikely to get a contract extension before Jenkins.
Teven Jenkins’ Contract Discussions
Teven Jenkins, a key player heading into the final year of his rookie contract with the Chicago Bears, remains steadfast about his long-term plans. Despite an injury-plagued first few seasons, Jenkins aims to stick with the team that first drafted him in the second round of the 2021 NFL draft. Despite the fruitful conversations about contract talks, Jenkins and his team understand they must play “the waiting game” with the Bears before moving towards a contract extension process.
Jenkins’ Impact on the Bears
Since his induction into the team in 2021, Jenkins has flourished into a force to be reckoned with on the field. The 26-year-old athlete has evolved to become a dominant run-blocker for the team’s offensive line and also varied enough to start at either guard spot, making him a significant frontline asset. However, the Bears are likely to want reassurance regarding his fitness, having missed a total of 20 games over three seasons due to injuries.
The Bears’ Conundrum
One of the main challenges the Bears face is that they lack a succession plan for Jenkins. Despite his potential to develop into a Pro Bowl player, his injury history remains a concern, complicating the prospect of offering him a top-tier guard contract. As they navigate negotiations, the Bears must bear this in mind to avoid risking a potential loss without a suitable back-up plan.
Future of Nate Davis
Nate Davis, another significant player for the Bears, may be another concern. His performance left room for improvement in the 2023 season. If he doesn’t make notable advancements in the 2024 season, the Bears may feel compelled to part ways with him, making decisions regarding Jenkins all the more pivotal.
Additional Key Free Agents
While Jenkins is a central focus, the Bears will also be looking closely at Keenan Allen’s performance. Allen, a six-time Pro Bowl wide receiver, is another major free agent, albeit likely to spark negotiations after Jenkins.
Despite catching a career-high 108 passes for the Los Angeles Chargers in 2023, the Bears are likely to hold off on offering the 32-year-old Allen a hefty contract. This hesitation is due to the promising performance of the younger DJ Moore and the potential of Rome Odunze, their 2024 first-round pick.
In contrast to Allen’s uncertain future, Jenkins’ case for staying with the Bears is stronger if he continues demonstrating his critical role in protecting rookie quarterback Caleb Williams this season.
The running back Khalil Herbert’s case for an extension also presents an interesting dynamic to the Bears’ team composition. However, the likelihood of this happening has weakened after the signing of D’Andre Swift to a three-year, $24 million contract in 2024 free agency.
In conclusion, Jenkins’ case for a contract extension remains potent, enlivened by his impressive performance and affirmed desire to stay long-term with the Bears. As the team sifts through their free agent concerns and continues contract talks, Jenkins seems to top their list of priorities.