NEWSLETTER
There isn’t a Chicago Bears player who went through more on-field trials and tribulations this season than Teven Jenkins.
Take a moment to think about his arc in 2022.
In January, Jenkins was penciled in as the team’s left tackle of the future. When spring came around, Jenkins found himself sliding down to the right side of the line. And just when it was looking like things were lining up for Jenkins to be the team’s starting right tackle, he was sent to second-string status. By the time summer rolled around, there were rumors that Jenkins was on the trade block. And even though Offensive Coordinator Luke Getsy was envisioning a starting role for Jenkins (once he got the medical OK to play after an undisclosed injury was keeping him out of training camp practices), there were still trade rumors surrounding the offensive lineman going into the last round of cuts. However, Jenkins made the team out of camp. Whew.
And yet, there was still drama surrounding Jenkins, who found himself in a platoon at right guard to start the season. But as it turns out, Jenkins found a long-term home at the position. There is no doubt Jenkins made the most of his time at right guard. Perhaps as a sign of gratitude and appreciation, quarterback Justin Fields gave Jenkins quite the gift:
Oh, brother! Now *THAT* is a grill. Let the big dawgs eat. And cook!
Quarterbacks giving out lineman gifts is nothing new in the NFL. But they’ve gotten more creative as the years have gone by. What once was a traditional gifting of watches has become an exercise in rewarding the big dudes in the trenches with things that fit their personalities. Whatever the case is with Fields and Jenkins, this is a hearty gift. And one Jenkins clearly appreciates.
For what it is worth, Fields likely appreciates what Jenkins did for him up front. Jenkins, despite practicing at three different positions this year, was the team’s best blocker. Pro Football Focus graded him as the third-best offensive guard with an impressive 80.7 grade. Not bad for a guy who just began practicing at that position this summer.
What’s next for Jenkins will be fun to follow. The Bears still have needs along the offensive line, but Jenkins’ spot at right guard is probably the most secure of the bunch. Given a full offseason of training and practicing at his new position, we could see Jenkins hit another gear in 2023. If that happens to be the case, it could help unlock another level to this offense. And that would be a wonderful development.
