Surprising Player Named Bears' Most Promising Building Block of 2024
By Cem Yolbulan
Plenty of attention has been rightfully given to the new additions on the offensive end for the Chicago Bears this offseason. With Caleb Williams at the helm, the new high-powered Bears offense will feature fellow rookie Rome Odunze, talented running back D'Andre Swift, and star veteran wide receiver Keenan Allen.
Not enough attention, however, has been given to the offensive line. The success of this group, especially the rookie quarterback, will depend on the performance of the O-line. And that unit will be led by a breakout candidate, Darnell Wright. In fact, Bleacher Report's David Kenyon surprisingly just identified him as the "most promising building block" for the Chicago Bears.
"The Bears want Caleb Williams to demand this position next year. Until then, the spotlight falls on Darnell Wright—one of the players tasked with protecting the No. 1 overall pick. Wright started all 17 games at right tackle as a rookie. While he yielded seven sacks and committed 11 penalties, per PFF, Wright still showed he could be a long-term blocker in Chicago."
- David Kenyon, Bleacher Report
Wright was the tenth overall pick by Chicago in the 2023 NFL Draft. He had a solid rookie season despite being part of a dysfunctional offense. The former Tennessee standout will have a chance to take a significant step forward next season and potentially play at a Pro Bowl level.
The power and physical tools Wright possesses are undeniable. Despite his 6'6, 330 lbs stature, he has quick feet and long arms, helping him be a disruptor on the edge.
Wright will start the season at right tackle, while Braxton Jones is the projected starter at left tackle. Teven Jenkins, Coleman Shelton, and Nate Davis will likely round out the rest of the offensive line to start the season. This group has largely gone under the radar so far but they will play as big of a part in the Bears' success in 2024 as all the offseason additions.
On FanDuel Sportsbook, the Chicago Bears are +330 to win the NFC North. The offensive line, as well as the star rookies, have to overperform for the Bears to have a chance to take down the Lions and the Packers in the pecking order.
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Odds refresh periodically and are subject to change.