Jenkins is a solid starting guard, but his injury history makes him a risky long-term investment. The Bears would be wise to let Jenkins walk in free agency and replace him with Smith.
The 25-year-old is coming off his first Pro Bowl season with the Kansas City Chiefs, and he has missed only one game through his first four years in the NFL. His age, skill set and durability are what Chicago should be looking for in its next protector for QB Caleb Williams.
2. Re-sign OL Matt Pryor
Pryor is a versatile offensive lineman who can play multiple positions and serves as an important depth piece. The Bears, after giving up the most sacks in the NFL last season (68), can’t afford to lose a contributor like that.
Upgrading guard with Jones and bringing back Pryor would go a long way in aiding Williams’ development. The 2024 No. 1 overall pick has all the talent in the world for new head coach Ben Johnson to unlock, but that won’t be possible unless the offensive line keeps him upright. This position group should be Chicago’s main focus in the offseason.
3. Cut safety Kevin Byard III
The Bears have already released tight end Gerald Everett and defensive end DeMarcus Walker to create $10.75M in cap space, but they might not be done making money-saving moves. Cutting Byard, who will be 32 at the start of the 2025 season, would free another $7M in cap space.
Although Byard is coming off a career-high 130 tackles and five tackles for loss last season, he’s on the wrong side of 30 and unlikely to replicate that production. Jaquan Brisker is a better option than Byard anyway, and he should be back to full health in 2025 after dealing with a concussion last season.
4. Sign QB Joe Flacco
The Bears can’t afford to waste another season of Williams’ development. If Chicago builds up the offensive line, Williams has the weapons and coaches to make a big leap in 2025. The only missing piece is a mentor.
Tyson Bagent, a 2023 undrafted free agent, doesn’t have the experience to help Williams improve. Flacco has nearly two decades’ experience in the NFL. Having a veteran like Flacco step in and coach up Williams in practice and meetings would be invaluable to the rising star.
5. Draft EDGE Mykel Williams
