Seems The Teven Jenkins Trade Buzz Still Isn’t Going Away

Teven Jenkins did everything asked of him. He handled the demotion at tackle with quiet grace. Then he accepted a shift to right guard where he ended up playing far better in two preseason games than anybody thought possible. Most people who watched him believe he’s the best candidate to start, inexperienced or not. When it comes to talent, Jenkins has the most of anybody in that offensive line room.

That is why it’s unusual to see trade rumors persist about him. Adam Schefter of ESPN said as much last week, stating it’s still his belief the Chicago Bears will deal the former 2nd round pick for a decent compensation. Now Ian Rapoport of NFL Network jumped in as well, stating that a Jenkins trade remains a strong possibility as final roster cuts loom on August 30th. Chicago has fielded calls, but nothing has crossed the finish line yet.

From NFL Now: Looking at some possible trade candidates, focusing on #Bears OL Teven Jenkins and #Raiders OL Alex Leatherwood. pic.twitter.com/Pxz7csBveB

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) August 29, 2022

Teven Jenkins deserves a chance. Will he get it?

That isn’t clear. There seem to be two competing rumors out there right now. The national belief is Jenkins remains available and that the Bears will trade him for the right price. Conversely, local insiders have hinted that the coaching staff has been impressed with his progress at guard for over a week. It suggests he’s changed several minds at Halas Hall. Nobody can say for sure which rumor is correct.

It is hard to understand why the Bears would trade Teven Jenkins at this point. They’re likely to get nothing above a 5th round pick for him. That isn’t going to make their offensive line any better since the odds of a more talented lineman being available in free agency are remote. Everything points to the smarter decision being to keep him and see whether he can blossom as a starter at guard.

Their alternatives would be either Michael Schofield, who struggled this past month, or a choice of Lachavious Simmons, Ja’Tyre Carter, or Zachary Thomas.