4 Chicago Bears facing a fight for new deals in 2024

3. Braxton Jones

Braxton Jones is not quite in the same spot as the others on the list, but he is fighting for a contract in the same way. Jones is entering his third year. His fourth will be the last on his rookie deal. So, while the Bears cannot even begin talking to Jones about a contract until next year, this is the make-or-break season for him. 

The Bears drafted Kiran Amegadije in the third round, and he has the makeup of a future left tackle. They have to be thinking that they can get two cheap years out of Braxton Jones and then move on to two more years of a cheap rookie salary with Amegadije. 

Of course, Jones can change that with his play. If Jones goes into next year without a contract, it is hard to see him returning. He will be a young offensive tackle with four years of experience as a starter. Those players get overpaid in free agency any time they enter the market. 

So, the Bears are going to have to decide whether they want to build with him or let 2025 be a chance for him to audition for new teams. This is a big year for Braxton Jones.