LAKE FOREST, Ill. (670 The Score) -- By altering their schedule for training camp and implementing a ramp-up period for their work, the Bears and head coach Matt Eberflus hoped to preserve their players and minimize injuries. That has not been the case on the offensive line.
Nearly two weeks into training camp, the Bears' offensive line has been hit by a rash of injuries. Nate Davis, the veteran signed to start at right guard, has missed the last week with an undisclosed injury. His backup, veteran Lucas Patrick, left Sunday's Family Fest practice at Soldier Field with an undisclosed injury of his own. Starting left guard Teven Jenkins returned last Saturday after missing several days with an undisclosed injury.
The Bears have turned to second-year guard Ja'Tyre Carter with the starting offensive line as they manage players' health. Eberflus has stood by his personal policy of declining to reveal specifics on injuries during training camp, though he has maintained that none of the Bears' current injuries are long-term matters.
Bears general manager Ryan Poles is looking to the positive in play, which is that he can evaluate the team's depth on the offensive line.
"Yeah, we're not too concerned with that," Poles said Saturday. "You don't want guys to be out of practice. But over the years, I've gone from panicking in those situations when guys aren't practicing and you kind of frustrated about it, whatever the circumstance is. But you also get the opportunity to see what the depth looks like. We're getting a ton of really good reps for the guys that are on the second team to insert, because you're going to have injuries during the season. Guys are going to have to step up. Get some quality reps right now in those situations."
The Bears have seen instability with their offensive line over the last two seasons, this in part due to injuries. Chicago utilized 10 different starting offensive line combinations in 2022.
This offseason, the Bears signed Davis to a three-year, $30-million deal and moved him in as the starting left guard. Cody Whitehair shifted back to center, where he began his career in 2016. Jenkins flipped from left guard to right guard. The team then selected tackle Darnell Wright with the No. 10 overall pick in the NFL Draft. Wright is slated to start at right guard.
Braxton Jones is the Bears' lone offensive lineman set to return at his starting position of last season. He played 100% of the team's offensive snaps at left tackle.
The Bears began their training camp working lighter practices without full pads for the first week, which Eberflus said was a decision made in conjunction with the sports performance department. Each week has been specifically designed through sports science with hopes of maintaining players' health.
The Bears are scheduled to hold three practices this week before a walk-through on Friday. The team will play its preseason opener Saturday at Soldier Field against the Titans.
Chris Emma covers the Bears, Chicago's sports scene and more for 670TheScore.com. Follow him on Twitter @CEmma670.
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