The Chicago Bears open their season at home against the rival Green Bay Packers. While it is just a week one game, the added division element, especially the Packers, makes this game feel much more like a must-win. With such an important game, who are the players on the Bears that will make or break the outcome?
3. Braxton Jones has a lot on his plate for the Chicago Bears
The Chicago Bears are relying on Braxton Jones in a big way. The former fifth-round pick is now entering his second NFL season, and he has started every game in his career. That is a great start, but the play has been up and down. Now, the team needs him to take a step forward.
This will be crucial for a few reasons. First, the Chicago Bears are shuffling their offensive line in a big way. Darnell Wright is a rookie, and Teven Jenkins is out, so center Cody Whitehair is moving back to left guard. The Bears need a stable force right now, and it has to be Braxton Jones, who has less questions than anyone entering the season.
Their right guard missed the entire preseason, and they are unsure about who will start at center. All of a sudden it looks like Jones is the most trusted starter on the line. More than that, the Green Bay Packers have a notable pass rush, led by Rashan Gary. When Gary is at his best, he is one of the best rushers in the NFL. However, he is coming back from an ACL injury and may not be at his best.
Still, beyond Gary, Jones will be seeing a heavy dose of Preston Smith, and rookie Lukas Van Ness. This matchup will show up whether Jones is ready to take that step, or if he cannot be a stable piece on an offensive line that is starting to develop some questions. Either way, all eyes have to be on his performance.