LAKE FOREST, Ill. (670 The Score) — Bears left guard Teven Jenkins (leg) will start the season on injured reserve, general manager Ryan Poles said Wednesday.
Jenkins will be required to miss the first four regular-season games of the season but is eligible to return after that. The Bears don't view Jenkins – or any other player on their roster – as requiring a long-term absence due to injury.
The Bears shifted Cody Whitehair from center to left guard with Jenkins sidelined. It's unclear whether Whitehair will return to center or how the Bears will line up for their regular-season opener on Sept. 10 against the Packers.
"That's one of the things we're working on right now," Poles said. "It's fluid right now. By the time we get into next week, I'm sure we'll have that thing solidified, which is important too.
"We've been able to move guys around a little bit and get experience, because if we have to do that in the season we should be in a better position."
In placing Jenkins on injured reserve, the Bears will open a roster spot for newly signed receiver/punt returner Trent Taylor. His acquisition hasn't yet been made official by the team.
A second-round pick of the Bears in 2021, Jenkins has played in 19 NFL games, starting 13. He missed the majority of his rookie season after undergoing back surgery in August 2021, as he appeared in just the final six contests.
Jenkins last practiced on Aug. 17 in Westfield, Ind., and he spoke optimistically about his health afterward. He hasn't taken the field since. Poles declined to address specific details about Jenkins' injury.
"I mean, it hopefully shows signs of my wanted durability of myself for the rest of the season," Jenkins said on Aug. 17. "So, as long as I'm staying out here right now through training camp, hopefully it shows positive signs for the rest of the year."
The Bears acquired veteran offensive lineman Dan Feeney from the Dolphins earlier this week, sending a sixth-round pick to Miami as part of the deal.
Feeney could be a candidate to start at left guard for the Bears while Jenkins is sidelined.
"Versatile interior player that makes us feel a lot better," Poles said. "A lot more secure inside as we move through the season."
Chris Emma covers the Bears, Chicago's sports scene and more for 670TheScore.com. Follow him on Twitter @CEmma670.
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