The 3 most important training camp battles for the Chicago Bears
2. Chicago Bears training camp battle to watch: Offensive line
This was a bigger concern prior to the Chicago Bears’ signing of Riley Reiff and Michael Schofield. These two veterans fill a big hole on this team as Reiff is likely to play at left tackle while Schofield is likely to start at right guard. Prior to these signings, it was going to come down to a fifth-round rookie in Braxton Jones or Larry Borom at left tackle. If Jones won the job, Borom and Teven Jenkins were supposed to battle it out for the right tackle spot. Right guard was a hot mess.
Now, the team at least has options. Look, Reiff isn’t a great offensive lineman, but he is serviceable and can be a 2022 stop-gap for this team. Justin Fields should be happy knowing he won’t be sacked nine times in a game again like he was in the Browns game last year.
That said, I would still keep a close eye on this group. From a developmental standpoint, if Braxton Jones is able to prove himself worthy, it’s better to have him at left tackle while this team rebuilds. The same could be said for a young guard not named Sam Mustipher too.
Now, with the Lucas Patrick injury and the chances of him not being able to return by Week 1, even Doug Kramer becomes a guy to watch. Can he earn that starting spot or will it be Mustipher again? As you can see, even with the two signings by Ryan Poles, there are still plenty to keep an eye on when it comes to the offensive line. Let the best five earn their spots and play, no matter who they are or how much they are going to earn.
Prediction:
Riley Reiff, Cody Whitehair, Lucas Patrick, Michael Schofield and Larry Borom are the starting five for 2022. Doug Kramer makes the squad for sure if Patrick isn’t able to start Week 1. Braxton Jones is your backup offensive tackle. Teven Jenkins is the mystery, but I believe he makes the final roster despite the rumors. That’s eight offensive linemen and I expect them to keep 10. Sam Mustipher seems to be sticking around and I’d give the final spot to Zach Thomas or Ja’Tyre Carter. The one who doesn’t make the squad will be on the practice squad.