Bears' offensive lineman gives a disappointing update about his extension talks heading into a contract year
With mandatory minicamp starting up for a handful of teams around the league, more and more hold outs are popping up with players wanting new contracts before training camp begins later this summer.That's not the case for the Chicago Bears, who have had perfect attendance during both days so far this week. But, that doesn't […]
With mandatory minicamp starting up for a handful of teams around the league, more and more hold outs are popping up with players wanting new contracts before training camp begins later this summer.
That's not the case for the Chicago Bears, who have had perfect attendance during both days so far this week. But, that doesn't mean everyone is feeling comfortable about their futures with the team.
During Tuesday's media session, wide receiver Keenan Allen detailed his own contract situation and on Wednesday, offensive lineman Teven Jenkins gave his own update on his contract talks with the team.
Jenkins' situation with the Bears in terms of working out a long-term deal is miles different compared to Allen's situation despite both players currently set to enter into the final contract year of their current deals. As a new player on the roster, Allen has to prove his worth on the field before earning a new deal. Jenkins has been in Chicago for three years but talks for a long-term deal to remain there haven't materialized.
According to Jenkins, there is no offer currently on the table from the Bears' front office after Jenkins and his agent inquired about the process for an extension. It's not uncommon to see regimes in the NFL feel this way about players they didn't bring in, but general manager Ryan Poles changed that narrative the last two offseasons after committing to tight end Cole Kmet and cornerback Jaylon Johnson.
Both players are cornerstones on the team, but one could argue that Jenkins is that kind of player as well. Since being drafted in 2021, Jenkins has been asked to do a lot, including playing multiple positions, and done so at a high level on the field.
"I can still be a Top-10 guard, left or right guard," Jenkins said about his value on the offensive line. "I can be versatile and I'm confident about myself."
The main caveat for Jenkins is being able to consistently show that to the front office. In this three years since being drafted by the Bears, Jenkins has missed a total of 20 combined games due to injury. It's something that even he recognizes he needs to show improvement in before getting a new deal.
"The mindset this year is to stay healthy, that's at the up-most importance for me right now," Jenkins said. "Just stay healthy, get through the whole 17 games, and continue my strong play from last year."
If Jenkins can be able to do that while serving as a dominant pass protector for rookie quarterback Caleb Williams, his time will come for his pay day. As with Allen, it appears the front office wants him to prove it before rewarding him with a long-term deal.
What Teven Jenkins’ extension with the Chicago Bears could look like
Will he get paid before the season?
