The Chicago Bears appear to have found their franchise right tackle in Darnell Wright, who had an impressive rookie season where he proved to be one of the better offensive linemen on the team.
Wright, who was drafted 10th overall, started all 17 games for Chicago, where he earned a 62.4 overall grade from Pro Football Focus (second among rookie tackles). Wright’s run-blocking grade of 66.0 was the best among all rookies. He also earned a 61.3 pass blocking grade.
“He’s a really good football player right now,” Bears offensive line coach Chris Morgan said, via Audacy. “And I think he’s going to be a great football player.
“The sky’s the limit. If he stays hungry, which I think he will because I think he’s the ultimate competitor deep down, I think he’s got the chance to be special. And I’ve been around a lot of good ones. He’s got a chance to be that.”
Bears RT Darnell Wright was named to the @PFWAwriters All-Rookie Team.
— Kevin Fishbain (@kfishbain) January 23, 2024
Last year, left tackle Braxton Jones was also named to the PFWA’s All-Rookie Team. The fifth-round rookie started every snap at left tackle for Chicago, and he showed promise as a long-term starter.
One noticeable snub on the 2023 PFWA All-Rookie Team is cornerback Tyrique Stevenson, who was one of the better rookie cornerbacks this season. He really came into his own during the latter half of the season, including tying for a team-best four interceptions.
Cornerback Jaylon Johnson was also named to PFWA’s All-NFC Team following a career year.
