The Chicago Bears delivered a dominant performance in their 36-10 victory over the Carolina Panthers, but it wasn’t a total win for the Bears. Left guard Teven Jenkins left the game in the first half due to an ankle injury and didn’t return. With ongoing concerns at right guard following Nate Davis’ recent benching, the Bears turned to an unexpected player who impressed in his debut for the team.
The Bears May Have Found a Hidden Gem on Offense
Bill Murray Could Be the Solution at Guard for the Bears
Bill Murray stepped in at left guard for Jenkins and delivered an impressive performance. Once a practice squad player and a surprising pick for the 53-man roster, Murray played 37 of the Bears’ 74 offensive snaps. According to Pro Football Focus, he earned an overall grade of 83.9, with an 85.7 in pass blocking and 79.2 in run blocking. Notably, he allowed zero hurries, sacks, hits, penalties, or pressures—a remarkable showing for someone previously seen as a practice squad player in the NFL.
With Ryan Bates set to return soon, the Bears will face questions about their starting lineup for the interior offensive line. The decision to bench Davis, who was signed to a three-year, $30 million contract, suggests the Bears are committed to starting the best players, regardless of salary. With all the problems pointing to the offensive line early in the season, the Bears should have a sigh of relief watching Murray step in and impress against the Panthers.
Bill Murray with Maximum effort here:
Not 1, not 2, but 3 guys he takes out here… pic.twitter.com/x8QG1AeeBD
— Da Bright Side Bear (@BrightSideBears) October 7, 2024
What’s Next for Teven Jenkins, Bears Offensive Line?
Heading into the game against the Panthers, Jenkins was already questionable due to a rib injury. Now, with an ankle injury added to the mix, his return timeline is uncertain. It’s unfortunate, as Jenkins has arguably been the Bears’ best offensive lineman when healthy. Now, in his contract year, with all these injuries, he might not be in a Bears uniform next season. Jenkins will have to impress and be on the field as much as he can the rest of the season to earn a second contract with the Bears.
The starting lineup for the Bears’ offensive line will likely be a hot topic among fans. While Matt Pryor has been serviceable filling in for Davis at right guard, he isn’t viewed as a long-term solution. At center, the Bears might consider replacing Coleman Shelton with Ryan Bates once Bates returns from injury. As for the left guard position, Jenkins is expected to reclaim the spot when healthy, but Bill Murray’s impressive performance could make him a candidate for the starting role next season if the Bears decide to move on from Jenkins.
Sunday’s game was the best outing for the Bears’ offensive line, though it came against an injury-riddled defense. The true test for the line will come in the weeks ahead against divisional rivals. The Bears must figure out the best combination at offensive line to continue developing rookie quarterback Caleb Williams. Nevertheless, it’s reassuring for the Bears to have a promising backup in the depth chart.
Main Image: Daniel Bartel – USA Today Sports
