The Chicago Bears have decided to bring back veteran left tackle Braxton Jones, agreeing to a one-year contract worth up to $10 million ahead of the upcoming season.
Chicago’s decision comes as the team deals with uncertainty on the offensive line following a major injury to another tackle. With the team needing stability at the position, bringing Jones back provides an experienced option as the Bears prepare for the next season.
The move also creates competition along the offensive line as the Bears look to solidify their protection unit.
Contract Details
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Player | Braxton Jones |
| Team | Chicago Bears |
| Contract Length | 1 Year |
| Contract Value | Up to $10 Million |
The short-term deal gives the Bears flexibility while ensuring they have depth at a key position.
Why the Bears Re-Signed Braxton Jones
The Bears currently face a gap at left tackle after Ozzy Trapilo suffered a serious knee injury during a playoff game. That injury is expected to keep him out for most of the upcoming season.
| Situation | Impact |
|---|---|
| Trapilo Injury | Expected long absence |
| Offensive Line Depth | Need for experienced tackle |
| Jones Signing | Provides short-term solution |
Because of this situation, bringing Jones back gives Chicago a reliable player who already understands the team’s system.
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Braxton Jones’ NFL Background
Jones originally joined the Bears as a draft pick and quickly earned a starting role early in his career.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Draft Year | 2022 |
| Draft Round | Fifth Round |
| College | Southern Utah |
| Rookie Season Starts | 17 Games |
He became the first offensive lineman drafted by the team’s current general manager and started every game in his rookie season.
Injury Challenges in Recent Seasons
Although Jones started strong in his career, injuries slowed his progress in the following seasons.
| Season | Games Played |
|---|---|
| 2023 | Limited by injuries |
| 2024 | Limited by injuries |
| Combined Total | 23 Games |
Those injury setbacks affected his availability over two seasons.
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Competition on the Offensive Line
Before the previous season, the Bears had several players competing for the left tackle position.
| Player | Role |
|---|---|
| Braxton Jones | Veteran tackle |
| Ozzy Trapilo | Young tackle prospect |
| Kiran Amegadjie | Offensive line depth |
| Theo Benedet | Offensive line competition |
Jones initially won the starting role but later saw changes in playing time during the season.
Performance in the 2025 Season
Jones began the season as the starting left tackle but eventually lost the role during the year.
| Category | 2025 Stats |
|---|---|
| Starts | 4 |
| Pressures Allowed | 15 |
| Sacks Allowed | 2 |
After losing the starting position, he saw limited playing time later in the season.
By bringing Jones back, Chicago secures an experienced option on the offensive line while dealing with injuries and roster adjustments. The one-year contract allows the team to maintain depth and competition at the left tackle position.
With the upcoming season approaching, the Bears will continue evaluating their offensive line as they determine the best combination of players to protect their offense moving forward.
