The nightmare that was the 2024 Chicago Bears season is over. Before the transactional period starts and the roster changes begin, we will recap the seasons of most of the 53-man roster. Next up: We’re looking at the 2024 season of offensive lineman Coleman Shelton.
Coleman Shelton’s 2024 Snapshot
I’m afraid to type Coleman Shelton’s name into the search bar on X. Shelton was often the subject of harsh criticism this season, and I’m one of the people who was beating that drum. There were times when Shelton looked mildly competent — which is all I ever really expected from him. And then there were times when he looked absolutely lost.

Shelton was brought to Chicago on a one-year deal and was expected to compete with Ryan Bates for the starting center job. Shelton’s experience with then-Chicago offensive coordinator Shane Waldron made the move seem like one that could work for a season, while General Manager Ryan Poles kicked the can down the road regarding fixing the offensive line.
Like the hiring of Waldron, the signing of Shelton was a misfire by Poles. And like replacing his offensive coordinator, Poles will have to find a competent starting center to snap the football to his franchise quarterback this offseason.
By the Numbers
- PFF Overall Grade: 66.4 (13th/40 centers)
- PFF Pass Blocking Grade: 68.4 (10th/39 centers)
- PFF Run Blocking Grade: 66.7 (18th/37 centers)
Contract Status
Shelton will become an unrestricted free agent in March when the new league year arrives. Shelton made $3.5 million for his work in Chicago in 2024.

Turning the Page
Please, for the love of God, no more stop-gap reclamation projects on the offensive line. Coleman Shelton was a massive swing-and-miss for Poles, he’s likely gone, and here’s to hoping the front office learned its lesson and addresses the interior of his offensive line with real, long-term solutions this offseason.