LAKE FOREST, Ill. (670 The Score) — Competition has been a preaching point and theme during Bears training camp, but the team isn't ready to proclaim a position battle at a key spot as it forms its plan on the offensive line.
Bears right guard Nate Davis, who's dealing with another injury setback, will remain the team’s starter once he returns, offensive coordinator Shane Waldron said Monday. Davis left practice Saturday with a “strain,” head coach Matt Eberflus said that day without offering further specifics.
Davis, 27, was present with the Bears for practice Monday but didn't participate. He played in 11 of the Bears' 17 games last season.
The Bears have prepared for uncertainty at their two guard spots. Davis and starting left guard Teven Jenkins missed a combined 12 games last season.
The Bears acquired veteran offensive lineman Ryan Bates in a trade with the Bills in March. Bates, who's competing for the starting role at center, has shifted into Davis’ place at right guard the past few days. Coleman Shelton, a 17-game starter for the Rams last season, has worked as the center with Bates at right guard.
“Versatility on the offensive line is something we have now, and we didn’t have before as much,” Eberflus said Saturday. “So, the depth is crucial. Always have a pair to spare at each position, and that’s what we had today.
“Availability is everything in this league.”
Davis signed a three-year, $30-million deal with the Bears in March 2023. The team's hope was that he would provide stability on the offensive line, but his health is once again a concerning storyline after he was sidelined on the second day of full-contact work in training camp.
In other injury news, Bears nickel cornerback Kyler Gordon remained sidelined from practice Monday with an undisclosed injury. Gordon was present at practice with a wrap on his left leg. Veteran running back Travis Homer also didn't practice and was seen walking with a clear limp.
The Bears will play their first preseason game Thursday against the Texans in the Hall of Fame Game in Canton, Ohio. Eberflus and his coaching staff will determine Tuesday whether rookie quarterback Caleb Williams and the key starters will play in the game.
Chris Emma covers the Bears, Chicago’s sports scene and more for 670TheScore.com. Follow him on Twitter @CEmma670.