Chicago Bears: 5 free agent tackles to replace Charles Leno
By Ryan Heckman
Chicago Bears’ potential replacements for Charles Leno: Dennis Kelly
There were many Tennessee Titans fans surprised by the release of tackle Dennis Kelly earlier in the offseason. Fortunately, the Titans were able to land North Dakota State’s Dillon Radunz in the draft to fill in while Taylor Lewan mans the other side. But, Kelly is now left looking for a job still after playing all of last season unexpectedly.
Kelly took the place of last year’s rookie Isaiah Wilson, who has also now been released after the Titans traded him to the Miami Dolphins. Last year, Kelly stepped in and played extremely well for the Titans who rely heavily on the run game — something the Bears are looking to do even more in 2021 with David Montgomery and company.
In 2020, Kelly did not allow a single sack. It’s somewhat surprising that he is still available, that stat considered. However, he is — and he could be a value for the Bears.
One of the best things about Kelly is that he can play either side of the line. So, depending upon what Matt Nagy decides to do with rookie Teven Jenkins, Kelly would be just fine. He’s versatile.
The former fifth-round pick back in 2012 is 31 years old and might be looking at one of his last contracts in the NFL. Although, the way he played last season suggests he has plenty left in the tank.