Braxton Jones Faces an Uphill Battle After Bears Sign Jedrick Wills Jr.
The Chicago Bears have thrown a curveball into their offensive line plans by signing Jedrick Wills Jr. This move adds another layer of complexity to Braxton Jones' quest to secure a spot on the roster.
Initially, Jones seemed poised for a comeback after agreeing to terms with the Bears, especially with Ozzy Trapilo sidelined due to a torn patellar tendon. But now, the addition of Wills Jr. means Jones will have to fight not just for a starting role, but potentially for a place on the team.
Jones' journey has been anything but smooth. Last season was marred by injuries, including a knee setback that kept him out after Week 4.
Despite these challenges, his track record includes a Pro Football Focus grade above 68.8 in his first three seasons, and an impressive pass-blocking grade of 80.8 in 2024 before injuries cut his season short. His 7.7 percent pressure rate shows he has the chops to compete, but the competition just got stiffer.
Enter Jedrick Wills Jr., a former first-round pick by the Cleveland Browns, who is eager to revitalize his career in Chicago. Wills Jr. missed the entire 2025 season due to an MCL injury but has shown promise with a career pressure rate of 6.4 percent. His decision to join the Bears signals a fresh start and a chance to prove himself during his age-27 season.
For Jones, the stakes are high. Winning the starting job could set him on a path similar to what Wills Jr. is aiming for-a big contract and a solidified role in the NFL. However, with Wills Jr. motivated to seize one of his last opportunities and Theo Benedet also in the mix, Jones finds himself in a challenging position.
This wasn't the scenario Jones envisioned when he re-signed with Chicago. Now, he faces a pivotal offseason, with his future hanging in the balance. The battle for the left tackle spot is heating up, and Jones will need to dig deep to emerge victorious as the 2026 season approaches.