Key Takeaways:
– Chicago Bears’ offensive guard, Teven Jenkins, is touted for a significant raise based on his stellar performance in the NFL.
– Jenkins has showcased adaptability, efficiently playing on both the left and right sides of the line.
– Described as Chicago’s “most underrated player,” Jenkins ranks among the top 15 guards as per Pro Football Focus (PFF) grades.
– The Bears can increase their salary cap space further by renewing Jenkins’s contract.
Versatile Teven Jenkins Set For Contract Extension
Chicago Bears boast an impressive amount of talent on rookie contracts, which allows them for considerable salary cap space to extend contracts of deserving players. One such talent is the offensive guard Teven Jenkins, who, based on his performance, is poised for a substantial pay hike in the coming months.
Displaying outstanding adaptability and efficiency, Jenkins has proven his worth by playing successfully on both sides of the line. His performance is not overlooked, placing him amongst the top guards in the NFL.
Jacob Infante of Windy City Gridiron on May 18 endorsed Jenkins on a tweet saying, “He flipped from the left to the right side seamlessly, which isn’t easy to do midseason. If he’s healthy in 2024, he could get a huge payday in a flourishing guard market.”
Jenkins Rises as Chicago’s “Most Underrated Player”
Teven Jenkins’s performance in the last season earned him the unignored title of Chicago’s “most underrated player,” as per Zoltán Buday of PFF. Despite missing time due to injury and having to line up at both guard positions last season, Jenkins finished as PFF’s 14th highest-graded guard in 2023, with a score of 72.6.
Jenkins is noted for his consistency. He was moved inside from tackle post his rookie season, and his solid performance in 2022 was appreciated as a clear sign of his ascending career.
Balancing the Books with Jenkins’s Extension
The well-timed extension eligible for Jenkins is not just a testament to his talent but also a smart move for the Chicago Bears to create more salary cap space. As per the NFL Scouting Department at Bleacher Report, an early extension for Jenkins is one of the best ways for the Bears to open up cap room beyond the current $22.7 million.
Jenkins stands as a priority for the Bears. Despite his previous injury issues since being drafted in 2021, he has confirmed his spot as an efficient starting guard. With the price of interior linemen on the rise, an early extension might make sense, given his age and the likely market in 2025 led by older guards like Zack Martin and Kevin Zeitler.”
Jenkins was drafted as a second-round pick (No. 39 overall) in 2021 from Oklahoma State. He is entering the final season of his four-year, $8.4 million rookie deal.
Bears’ Offensive Line – Room For Improvement
Renewing Jenkins’s contract early holds beneficial for the Bears not only monetarily but also strategically. Despite criticisms, the offensive line performed relatively well in 2023. However, the weakest link Lucas Patrick was swapped for Coleman Shelton resulting in lingering uncertainties in the unit.
Davis’s underperformance last season and Darnell Wright’s second professional campaign add to the question marks. Although Braxton Jones has been consistent, he may not be the long-term solution for the left tackle spot.
Securing Jenkins long-term can, therefore, add stability and boost the overall performance of the team.