The Minnesota Vikings drafted offensive tackle Christian Darrisaw with the 23rd selection in the 2021 NFL draft. When making that selection, there was a wide range of options for the Vikings, including other offensive linemen.
One of those players was offensive tackle Teven Jenkins, who was drafted in the second round by the division rival Chicago Bears. The Vikings were interested in Jenkins before they selected Darrisaw, and they might have an opportunity to acquire him now.
The #Bears have received calls and have held trade talks centered around OT Teven Jenkins, sources tell me and @MikeGarafolo. The former 2nd round pick has drawn interest based on his potential. A situation to watch.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) August 1, 2022
Jenkins had a promising career at Oklahoma State and was the very definition of a bully on the football field.
He was dominant physically in the trenches, throwing and mauling defenders that ended up in front of him. Although he played mostly right tackle for the Cowboys, he did slide over to the left side for a few games and played well.
His time with the Bears has been tumultuous at best. After missing the first 11 games with a back injury, he started two of the final six with limited success. He had poor Pro Football Focus grades on the season with a 47.5 overall.
With new general manager Ryan Poles and head coach Matt Eberflus having no investment in Jenkins, a trade is more likely than if Ryan Pace and Matt Nagy were in charge. Even so, it would still be surprising to give up on a talented second-round pick.
Would the Vikings make a call? They probably should, as Jenkins is talented and has the ability to play on both sides of the line. For the price of (likely) a late-day three selection, it would be worth the Vikings’ time.
