The Chicago Bears have been trying to build their offensive line up for years, and that has resulted in the team drafting and signing a lot of linemen. Unfortunately, not many of those acquisitions worked out well for the team, and that's why Chicago is still in pursuit of an elite line.
One draft miss who was especially disappointing was Teven Jenkins. The Bears selected Jenkins in the second round of the 2021 Draft with the 39th-overall pick, and he quickly flashed potential. Lining up at nearly every spot on the offensive line, Jenkins showcased versatility, and at times, some solid play. Unfortunately, several injuries affected his career early, and he didn't become the staple on the offensive line Chicago hoped he would.
Now, after four seasons and 45 games played, including 38 started, Jenkins' time with the Bears is over. The veteran lineman joined the Cleveland Browns in free agency this offseason, signing a one-year deal worth $3.1 million. While his stint in Chicago didn't go great, his departure will award the Bears a compensatory pick.
Bears projected to receive compensatory pick for Teven Jenkins leaving
In the NFL, when certain players or coaches leave for a new team, the league will award a compensatory pick to the previous team for the next year's draft. With Jenkins now in Cleveland, the Bears are projected to pick up a compensatory seventh-round selection.
On the surface, that may not seem like much, but the league has shown that every pick is important. Great players can be found in every round of the draft, and even after the draft with undrafted free agents. Additionally, that pick can be used in trade packages to acquire players or to acquire a better drafting position, so Chicago would certainly be glad to have it.