NFL Combine week officially began on Tuesday with general manager and head coach press conferences. Chicago Bears general manager Ryan Poles began the festivities for his organization with his annual combine press conference. As expected, many of the questions directed at Poles surrounded the offensive line, a unit that struggled mightily last year.
That said, there has been much debate among Bears fans on if the team should replace left tackle Braxton Jones this offseason. Many believe that if there is a clear upgrade available, the Bears should attack it. While others believe Chicago should focus on the interior and allow Jones to finish out his rookie contract.
Poles provided his two cents on the situation during his press conference, saying that left tackle will be a spot where there is competition. He also provided an update on Jones's injury, stating he is progressing well (h/t CHGO Bears).
Ryan Poles said left tackle will be spot where there is competition.
— CHGO Bears (@CHGO_Bears) February 25, 2025
Said Braxton Jones is progressing well from his leg injury:
“We gotta see how he comes out on the other side of this.”
Ryan Poles Confirms There Will Be a Competition at Left Tackle Going Into 2025
Poles confirming that the Bears' left tackle isn't set in stone for 2025 is only a little surprising. Although Jones has been a solid left tackle for a fifth-round pick, his game still has flaws. The biggest being his inability to stop the bull rush.
Nonetheless, as mentioned above, offensive tackle isn't the line's main concern entering the offseason. Yet, a clear upgrade over Jones would be beneficial. Luckily, the draft is loaded with offensive tackles.
However, a few of the top prospects have questions about arm length entering the combine. Fortunately, those questions will be answered this week, giving Chicago more clarity on their selection at No.10 overall.
Even if the Bears decide to move the lineman they select to the interior, Jones will likely be battling Kiran Amegadjie for the tackle spot. Many Bears fans hate that idea after how Amegadjie played in 1.5 games last season. Despite the fact the former Yale product struggled, Amegadjie should be in better shape this offseason and upcoming season.
Remember, Amegadjie was coming off a quadriceps injury while having to adjust to the NFL. This season, the 2024 third-round pick could take a major step forward.
Whatever direction the Bears end up going, they may have a new starting left tackle in 2025.