The Chicago Bears have been one of the most electric teams in the NFL this season. Their offense has been exciting and has put them in Super Bowl conversations as we approach the halfway mark of the regular season. Injuries always play a factor in a team’s potential, and they have announced an injury that will affect the offense for the remainder of the season. Let’s take a closer look at who it is and what it means for the Chicago Bears going forward.
Chicago Bears lose Braxton Jones for the remainder of the season
Chicago Bears, Braxton Jones
Aug 10, 2024; Orchard Park, New York, USA; Chicago Bears offensive tackle Braxton Jones (70) on the sidelines during a pre-season game against the Buffalo Bills at Highmark Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark Konezny-USA TODAY Sports
The Chicago Bears are going to be without a major piece of their offensive line for the remainder of the season. Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribune is reporting that left tackle Braxton Jones has undergone season-ending surgery on a partially torn patellar tendon after delaying the procedure to see if he would be able to rehab the injury and return.
Knee injuries have been the stories of the young left tackle’s career as of late, as this is now the second consecutive season ended by knee injuries. Over the previous two seasons, Jones has been limited to nine games due to knee injuries. He has not been on the field for the Chicago Bears since Week 3 after being placed on injured reserve, but looked excellent when he is able to protect Caleb Williams’ blindside.
According to Pro Football Focus, Jones played 144 offensive snaps this season and allowed zero quarterback hits, zero sacks, two total pressures, and committed one penalty. Theo Benedet has been the starting left tackle for the Chicago Bears, but he is also dealing with a shoulder injury suffered in Week 8 on Monday night against the Seattle Seahawks. If he is unable to suit up, expect Ozzy Trapilo to get the start at left tackle.
This injury could be significant for Jones’ career, as he signed a one-year, $5 million contract with $3 million guaranteed with the Chicago Bears this offseason. With another season ending early, it will be difficult to imagine anything but another one-year deal being on the table for the talented offensive tackle. It will be intriguing to see how the Chicago Bears address the left tackle spot with this news and what it means for Braxton Jones’ future in the league.