Is there a hidden star on the offensive line for the Chicago Bears?

Is There a Hidden Star on the Offensive Line for the Chicago Bears?

When you think about the Chicago Bears and their long and storied history, the team has never been one to shy away from relying on a powerful, physical running game or a tough, resilient defense. But, in recent years, one position has continually been a point of struggle and inconsistency—the offensive line. A strong offensive line is fundamental to success in the NFL, and the Bears have faced a series of challenges with their line, from injuries to inconsistent play, particularly in the crucial areas of pass protection and run blocking. Yet, there may be a player or two on the Bears’ offensive line who has gone under the radar—potentially a hidden star in the making—waiting for the opportunity to break out and show that they can be a game-changer for the franchise.

In this article, we’ll delve into the current Chicago Bears offensive line, identify potential hidden gems, and examine what it would take for one of these linemen to rise to prominence and make a significant impact in 2025 and beyond.

The State of the Bears’ Offensive Line: A Quick Overview

Over the past decade, the Chicago Bears’ offensive line has been a topic of much frustration for fans and analysts alike. The team has consistently ranked among the NFL’s worst in offensive line metrics, and quarterback protection has often been a major problem. Whether it’s struggling to protect the quarterback, particularly on passing downs, or not creating enough holes for the running game to be effective, the offensive line has been a major focal point for improvement.

In 2023, the Bears took strides in shoring up the line with the selection of Darnell Wright in the first round of the NFL Draft. Wright, an offensive tackle out of Tennessee, was expected to provide a much-needed boost to the Bears’ front five, and he quickly became one of the most important pieces of the line. His arrival brought hope that the Bears were finally beginning to address their chronic offensive line woes.

However, even with Wright’s solid start and the improvements made through draft picks and free-agent acquisitions, the line still faced challenges. Injuries and player development were concerns that loomed over the unit throughout the 2023 and 2024 seasons. As a result, while the line wasn’t necessarily the worst in the league, it was still far from being among the best. For Chicago to truly contend for championships in the near future, the offensive line must make strides to be not just adequate, but dominant.

This brings us to a more important question: who are the players on the line that could surprise fans and emerge as future stars? Are there hidden gems among the group who could develop into key contributors?

The Case for a Hidden Star: Who Could Break Out?

While the Bears’ offensive line has had its fair share of criticism, there are several players currently on the roster who have the potential to elevate their game and emerge as key pieces of the offensive puzzle. Let’s break down the potential candidates who might be flying under the radar.

1. Teven Jenkins (Guard)

One of the most intriguing prospects on the Bears’ offensive line is Teven Jenkins, who was drafted in the second round of the 2021 NFL Draft out of Oklahoma State. Jenkins initially struggled to find his footing in the NFL, particularly during his rookie season, when he was moved around between tackle and guard. The lack of stability in his position likely contributed to his inconsistency on the field. However, in 2022, Jenkins was moved to right guard and began to settle into a more consistent role.

By 2023, Jenkins appeared to be on the verge of breaking out. He became one of the most physically dominant players on the line, showcasing impressive strength and the ability to move defenders off the ball in the running game. His tenacity and aggressiveness made him a noticeable force in the trenches, and while he had some struggles with pass protection, his growth potential was evident.

If Jenkins can continue to refine his pass protection skills and cut down on the penalties, he could very well develop into a hidden star for the Bears. His raw talent, combined with his physical traits—he’s a powerful, big-bodied player with the potential to be an elite interior lineman—suggests that, with time and development, he could be a key cog in the Bears’ offensive line moving forward.

2. Cody Whitehair (Center/Guard)

Another player who might surprise some people is Cody Whitehair. Whitehair has been a steady presence on the Bears’ offensive line for several years, but he’s often been underappreciated because of the team’s overall struggles in the trenches. Originally drafted as a second-round pick in 2016, Whitehair has played both guard and center during his time with the Bears. He’s shown solid technique and leadership, even as the team’s offensive line has fluctuated in terms of performance.

In 2023, Whitehair was moved back to his natural position at left guard, where he has been able to showcase his strength, athleticism, and awareness. Though he isn’t often discussed among the top guards in the NFL, Whitehair’s ability to stabilize the interior of the Bears’ offensive line shouldn’t be overlooked. He’s a strong, steady player who can win at the point of attack and provide consistency in both the run and pass games.

While Whitehair may not get the same level of attention as other linemen, particularly those with higher draft statuses, his veteran leadership and consistent play make him an underrated asset on the line. If the Bears continue to improve their offensive line, Whitehair will play a large role in that success, especially with his versatility to play multiple positions and his savvy experience in the league.

3. Braxton Jones (Tackle)

Braxton Jones, the Bears’ 2022 fifth-round pick out of Southern Utah, was another player who quietly turned heads during his rookie season. Jones earned a starting role as the left tackle early on in the season and faced significant challenges as a rookie, including going up against some of the league’s best pass rushers. Despite these difficulties, Jones showed flashes of his potential. He displayed good athleticism, a solid understanding of blocking techniques, and the ability to recover from mistakes—traits that often signal long-term development potential.

Though Jones had his fair share of rookie struggles in 2022, he gained invaluable experience as the starter and proved he could hang with NFL-caliber competition. Heading into 2025, if Jones can continue to develop his technique and improve his strength to compete against elite edge rushers, he could become a key piece of the offensive line. Left tackle is one of the most important positions on the offensive line, and if Jones continues to show growth, he has the potential to emerge as one of the team’s hidden stars.

4. Darnell Wright (Tackle)

While Darnell Wright might not be a “hidden” star given that he was a first-round pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, it’s possible that he becomes one of the most consistent and dominant players on the Bears’ offensive line in the near future. Wright’s combination of size, strength, and technical skills makes him an incredibly intriguing player. Though he played right tackle in college at Tennessee, he has the versatility to play either tackle position in the NFL, and the Bears could decide to shift him around depending on the needs of the line.

In 2023, Wright demonstrated solid play and the ability to pass protect at a high level, which was a critical need for the Bears. With further development, Wright has the potential to become a cornerstone piece on the offensive line for years to come. The pressure on him to perform at a high level is considerable, but with his blend of physicality and football IQ, he could be one of the players who emerges as the true leader of the Bears’ offensive line in 2025.

The Importance of Development and Continuity

The potential for a hidden star on the Chicago Bears’ offensive line isn’t just about raw talent—it’s about development, coaching, and continuity. The offensive line is one of the few units on a football team where chemistry and understanding between players can have a profound impact on overall performance. In this sense, the Bears’ coaching staff, including offensive line coach Chris Morgan, has a significant role to play in ensuring that the players on the line reach their full potential.

Moreover, continuity will be key. If the Bears can keep their offensive line largely intact, allowing for a stable group to develop chemistry over time, the growth potential of players like Jenkins, Whitehair, Jones, and Wright could come to fruition. With a strong offensive line in place, the Bears can not only protect their quarterback—whether it’s Justin Fields or another signal caller—but also open up lanes for their running backs and establish a powerful offense that complements their defense.