It’s been a rough two years for Bears offensive tackle Teven Jenkins. After missing most of his rookie season following back surgery, Jenkins faces an uncertain future in Chicago.
Jenkins has missed the last four practices of training camp as he works through something with trainers, which is the extent that we know from head coach Matt Eberflus.
But there’s also been a report of character issues with Jenkins, where there’s a disconnect between him and new coaching staff.
Adding fuel to the fire is a report from NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport that the Bears have received calls and had trade talks involving Jenkins. There has been interest in the former second-round pick, and it’s fair to wonder if Jenkins could be on his way out of Chicago.
Jenkins has been in the headlines since the spring, when he was demoted to the second-team at right tackle, and he’s remained there heading into training camp.
It wouldn’t be a huge surprise if general manager Ryan Poles decided to deal Jenkins to a team showing interest. Perhaps the Falcons are one of those teams, where the guy who drafted Jenkins, former Bears GM Ryan Pace, is in Atlanta’s front office.
This new regime doesn’t have any ties to Jenkins. And he clearly doesn’t look like he’s in Chicago’s starting plans on the offensive line. Larry Borom has taken over the starting right tackle spot, and veteran Riley Reiff was brought in to be the starter at left tackle.
At the same time, Jenkins is still young and has the talent. But if he can’t get on the same page as this new coaching staff, it seems like a waste.
Just because teams are showing interest in Jenkins doesn’t necessarily mean he’s headed anywhere. Just look at Robert Quinn. But if Jenkins doesn’t factor into the team’s plans — and the price is right from an inquiring team — things could most certainly change.
But what do you think? Should the Bears consider trading Jenkins?
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