Left tackle has been a popular position that Chicago Bears fans have circled as an area of need in the 2025 NFL Draft.
After a free-agency period that saw the Bears trade for Jonah Jackson and Joe Thuney and then sign Drew Dalman, speculation has been that the Bears could use the No. 10 pick to find their long-term answer at left tackle. There will be options for the Bears at No. 10, and even if they don't take a left tackle with their first pick, addressing the position later in the draft could be an option.
This speculation centers around two important factors for Braxton Jones. Jones is the incumbent starter at left tackle for the Bears and given the upgrades the team has already made this offseason, they likely would be fine with the former fifth-round pick remaining in place as a starter. However, Jones suffered an ankle injury that ended his 2024 season in December and left some questions regarding if he would be ready for the start of the season. Jones is also entering the final year of his rookie deal with the Bears.
While there likely won't be any change with his contract status prior to the season, Jone did post a video this week that confirmed he is no longer in a walking boot. Assuming that is the case, a general timeline would have Jones ready for football activity in time for training camp in July.
Braxton Jones appears to be on track to be ready for the start of the Chicago Bears' season.
If Jones isn't the Bears' starting left tackle to open the 2025 season, it won't be because of his injury. Based on the general timeline, Jones should be ready for the start of the season in September.
Regardless of whether or not the Bears select a left tackle in the early rounds who arrives with the expectation of starting from day one, Jones being healthy is an important development for the team's offensive line. Even after their moves this offseason, the Bears need depth for the offensive line. Jones would certainly check that box, even if he is displaced as the team's starting left tackle.