Just three games into the 2024 season, the Chicago Bears are already facing significant concerns, particularly with their offensive line. Injuries have hit hard, with Ryan Bates and swing tackle Larry Borom both on injured reserve until at least Week 4. Right guard Nate Davis has struggled, and while Braxton Jones should be fine, he briefly left Week 3’s game against the Indianapolis Colts due to a knee issue.
With their O-line depth thin and rookie quarterback Caleb Williams under pressure, Bleacher Report’s Matt Holder suggested the Bears should consider signing former Green Bay Packers All-Pro tackle David Bakhtiari. Holder pointed out that part of the problem with Williams’ performance has been the poor pass protection, and Bakhtiari could provide a much-needed veteran presence.
While the Bears were previously favored to sign Bakhtiari, concerns remain about his durability. Since tearing his ACL at the end of the 2020 season, Bakhtiari has undergone four surgeries and started only 13 games in the last three seasons. Despite performing well in limited action, his availability has been an issue, and there are questions about how much he has left.
Instead of signing Bakhtiari, the Bears might look to their in-house options, including rookie offensive lineman Kiran Amegadjie. Drafted in the third round out of Yale, Amegadjie has yet to play an NFL snap but could be a future option, especially if Jones misses time.
With the Bears having allowed 13 sacks through three games, the offensive line clearly needs improvement, but how they address this challenge remains uncertain.
