The Chicago Bears enter training camp with an offensive line that improved dramatically and now has a year of chemistry to build on.
The Chicago Bears saw dramatic improvement in their offense last season. This was largely due to a turnaround by their offensive line.
Jermon Bushrod served as quarterback Jay Cutler’s blindside protector after signing a five-year contract worth $36 million. While the former Saint was not spectacular by any means, he was still a major upgrade over J’Marcus Webb.
Matt Slauson was also added to the offensive line, and the former New York Jet started at left guard. He had the best season of his career and was rewarded with a four-year contract.
Roberto Garza made the start at center, and he performed solidly. Garza has been consistent for the Bears the past several years and is capable of playing right guard.
The right side of the line also performed admirably. Kyle Long proved critics who panned his first-round selection wrong, and he stepped in at right guard and was rewarded with a Pro Bowl berth. Jordan Mills also stepped in as a rookie and looks primed to be the Bears’ right tackle for years to come.
The center position has plenty of depth with Brian de la Puente being signed away from the New Orleans Saints, and Taylor Boggs will also fight to stay on the roster.
Eben Britton is expected to stick around as a key backup at tackle, and he is also capable at lining up in tight end formations for blocking plays. Undrafted free agent guard Ryan Groy is also a candidate to make the roster after making the All-Big Ten first team at Wisconsin.
The Bears’ offensive line benefitted greatly from having Marc Trestman as their new head coach, and they figure to be even more dangerous with a year of chemistry under their belts. The Bears will likely keep eight offensive linemen, but they may keep nine if they all perform well enough in training camp and preseason.
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