The Chicago Bears addressed their offensive line in the second round of the 2026 NFL Draft, selecting Iowa Hawkeyes standout center Logan Jones 57th overall. Jones enjoyed a strong five-year stint with the Hawkeyes, starting 50 games over the past four years and developing into one of the best collegiate centers. He put together a breakout senior campaign, allowing just three pressures and one sack and excelling at run blocking, earning First-Team All-American and All-Big Ten, winning the Rimington Trophy for the nation’s top center, and contributing to the team winning the Joe Moore Award for the nation’s most outstanding offensive line.
In his rookie season, Jones is expected to serve as the backup center behind Garrett Bradbury. With Bradbury’s contract set to expire next offseason, the second-round pick could take over as the starter in 2027.
The Chicago Bears ink the 2025 Rimington Trophy Award winner
Sep 13, 2025; Iowa City, Iowa, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes offensive lineman Logan Jones (65) looks on before the game against the Massachusetts Minutemen at Kinnick Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-Imagn Images
According to Ian Rapoport, the Bears have also signed Logan Jones to a four-year rookie contract. Spotracprojects the deal to be worth $8.468 million with a $2.618 million signing bonus. In addition, Jones could qualify for a Year 4 pay increase through the Proven Performance Escalators if he plays at least 60% of offensive snaps in two of the first three seasons, averages at least 60% across all three seasons, or earns a Pro Bowl nod on the original ballot.
Add second-round center Logan Jones, as well. https://t.co/Nap0YAUyKh
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) June 5, 2026
Mar 2, 2023; Indianapolis, IN, USA; NFL Network Draft media analyst Lance Zierlein during the NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
“Undersized but highly experienced with NFL-ready technique. Jones has a dense frame and short limbs. He has impressive initial quickness and stays firm inside the framework with his hands while his feet rarely stop pressing forward. Long nose tackles with quick hands are his kryptonite at the point of attack.
“Iowa’s scheme limited his true pass-set count, so proving he can anchor and play with gap range will be essential. He’s operational in gap schemes but better in zone, where his athleticism mitigates his lack of length. Jones’ age, traits and center-only value could limit his suitor count, but he has the polish to help early with the right fit.”
He projects as an average starter.