In addition to the struggles the Bears’ offensive line had last year, the group’s depth had limited impact. And even though Chicago has brought in a new offensive line coach and some fresh bodies for competition, the collective group still leaves something to be desired.
But I’ll withhold full judgment until the group is finalized:
Wire notes …
• No COVID-19 moves. League total on list still at 5.
• Eagles OT Andre Dillard to IR.
• Niners WR Tavon Austin to IR.… and the tryout/visit list. ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/kQ060aQI8w
— Albert Breer (@AlbertBreer) September 3, 2020
Albert Breer tweeted a list of league tryouts on Thursday. Among them is Jamon Brown, a free agent offensive lineman who visited the Bears. Brown is an interesting late-summer tryout for a line that could use another able-bodied player. Let’s discuss.
Brown, 27, was as third-round pick (72nd overall) by the Rams in 2015. He has 60 games of experience under his belt, including 47 starts with the Rams, Giants, and Falcons. Brown’s most recent stint came in Atlanta, where he signed a three-year deal worth more than $18 million. However, that contract did not guarantee him a starting spot as he was beat out by rookie Chris Lindstrom. Brown took over in Week 2, but started just nine games, was benched at the end of the year, and released in late August.
The Bears are positioned to start Rashaad Coward or Germain Ifedi at right guard this season. But perhaps Brown could be a late entry into the mix. At minimum, Brown could help solidify depth along the interior of the line because of his experience at both guard spots. In any case, the 6-4, 340-pound Brown is a massive human whose frame allows him to move defenders. And because there is no such thing as having too many able-bodied offensive linemen, I’m intrigued to see if the Bears follow up with Brown between now and when 53-man rosters shake out by the end of the weekend.