For a team known for having a mediocre offensive line in the past, the Chicago Bears have invested a ton of money and draft capital to change that narrative. A team filled with talent, the main question on offense surrounds whether this new-and-improved offensive line can keep No. 1 overall pick Caleb Williams upright. Through a mixture of injuries, playing out of position, and lack of continuity, the Bears struggled at offensive line. Because of this, over the past two seasons, Justin Fields was the second-most sacked quarterback in the NFL (99). With a new quarterback and star offensive players, the Bears’ offensive line faces significant pressure to become a dominant force in the trenches. Pro Football Focus is optimistic, ranking the Bears’ o-line among the best in the NFL.
Bears’ Offensive Line Ranks In The Upper Echelons Of The NFL
Where the Bears’ Offensive Line Ranks According to PFF
Pro Football Focus unveiled their 2024 NFL offensive line rankings, and the Bears’ line unexpectedly ranked 11th. As a team once viewed with an abysmal offensive line, the Bears now have a group of guys capable of defending against premier pass rushers and defensive tackles. With high expectations for a team on the rise, here’s what PFF had to say about their decision to place the Bears’ o-line at 11.
11. Chicago Bears “The Bears’ offensive line, as it got healthy, was one of the top units in the NFL toward the second half of the 2023 season. Center Ryan Bates is expected to complete the unit and bring it to the next level.
In Braxton Jones and Darnell Wright, Chicago has a promising young offensive tackle duo. And Teven Jenkins has performed extremely well since moving to guard, earning 70.0-plus PFF overall grades in 2022 and 2023.”
Believe it or not, the Bears have gone about improving the offensive line the right way. Instead of splurging on an older, high-profile player, they focused on building through the draft, adding crucial pieces like Darnell Wright, Teven Jenkins, and Braxton Jones. At the same time, adding Nate Davis and Coleman Shelton through free agency. If that wasn’t enough, trading a fifth-round pick for what likely is the starting center in Ryan Bates was a precautionary move for the Bears, considering center has been the main issue. All these moves account for the pressing need on offense: a competent offensive line.
The Most Important Factor
The talent is there on offensive line. That’s not the issue. The issue is staying healthy. Apart from Darnell Wright, all the Bears’ starters on the o-line missed significant time last season for various reasons. The best ability is availability, and the Bears’ o-line must stay healthy to become one of the best units in the league. Going back to talent, the Bears have a youthful duo with immense potential at offensive tackle and veteran guards who, when healthy, can shut down opposing defenders. If Ryan Bates or Coleman Shelton can step up at center, the offensive line has the potential to be one of the team’s strongest groups. All that’s left is to stay healthy and prove it on the field.
Main Image: Jamie Sabau – USA Today Sports
