As the Chicago Bears attempt to build a playoff contender, they’ll need much more reliable blocking in front of their young quarterback.
Caleb Williams’ rookie season had some bright spots, but it was largely derailed by sacks. He took 68 of them, 16 more than any other NFL quarterback, and though he certainly bears some of the blame, that doesn’t happen without some remarkably bad offensive line play.
Most football minds would agree that the left tackle position is the most important on the o-line, though it can vary from team to team. And the Bears’ Braxton Jones hasn’t fared particularly well at the position, though he may still have a solid career ahead of him.
To really set themselves up for future success, though, the Bears would be wise to take a look at signing the most coveted free-agent left tackle of the coming spring.
On Wednesday, Scott Engel of Advance Local predicted that Chicago would sign Ronnie Stanley, the longtime Baltimore Ravens left tackle and two-time Pro Bowler,
“Baltimore might do its best to keep Stanley, but the Chiefs could come calling, too,” Engel wrote. “The Bears, however, have a lot of salary cap room and very much need an anchor for their protection of Caleb Williams.”
Stanley has been outstanding when healthy throughout his nine-year career, and he was healthy for all 19 of the Ravens’ games this year. He might not have too many prime years left, but getting Williams comfortable in 2025 is all that matters right now.
Spotrac currently projects Stanley for a two-year, $41 million contract, which would frankly be a bargain for such a proven player at a premium position. Chicago has plenty of financial flexibility this spring and should go after the 30-year-old with intensity.
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