It hasn’t been a great day for the Bears’ 2023 offseason as two of the projected top offensive linemen slated to hit free agency signed contract extensions with their teams.
The Packers re-signed offensive lineman Elgton Jenkins to a four-year, $68 million contract extension, which makes him the second-highest paid guard in the NFL.
Not long after, the Browns inked right tackle Jack Conklin to a four-year, $60 million extension that includes $31 million fully guaranteed.
Bears general manager Ryan Poles needs to overhaul their offensive line this offseason, where no starting job is guaranteed. Right guard might be safe, as Teven Jenkins has found a new home as the team’s best offensive lineman. But the tackle jobs, left guard and center should certainly be addressed this offseason.
Jenkins has thrived in his role at left guard in Green Bay, and many wondered if a reunion with Luke Getsy was in the cards. Conklin was a top option at right tackle, another position Chicago will look to address.
Some other top free agent targets on the offensive line include tackles left tackle Orlando Brown Jr., right tackle Mike McGlinchey and center Rodney Hudson. The offensive line will also no doubt be a focal point in the 2023 NFL draft.