Braxton Jones has agreed to a one-year deal with the Chicago Bears, potentially worth up to $10 million.
Jones, a left tackle, was initially drafted by the Bears in 2022. Ryan Poles, the Bears’ general manager, selected him. Jones, who played college football at Southern Utah, was a fifth-round pick.
Jones’s Early Career and Injury Setbacks
As a rookie, Jones started in all 17 games at left tackle. However, injuries impacted his playing time in both 2023 and 2024. He started in 23 games across those two seasons, but missed time due to injury.
Competition and Performance in 2025
Jones entered 2025 in a contract year, recovering from a season-ending ankle injury. The Bears drafted Ozzy Trapilo, signalling potential changes to the offensive line. This move set the stage for a position battle during the offseason.
Jones competed with Trapilo, Kiran Amegadjie, and Theo Benedet for the left tackle position during training camp. Ultimately, he won the starting job to begin the 2025 season.
He started four games at left tackle before being benched before halftime during the Bears’ 25-24 victory against Las Vegas. Benedet then took over the left tackle position.
Jones played 12 snaps over two games for the remainder of the season. In 2025, he allowed 15 pressures and two sacks.