Is Braxton Jones the answer to the Bears' left tackle problem?
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The episode centers on whether Braxton Jones can solve the Chicago Bears' long-standing left tackle problem, examining his injury recovery, past performance, and potential for a resurgence in 2026. Hosts Marshall Harris and Gabe Ramirez discuss Jones' 2025 ankle surgery, his limited role last season, and the competitive depth at the position with Theo Benedett, Jedrick Wills Jr., and others. They analyze insights from Bears offensive line coach Dan Rochard, who emphasized that the ideal left tackle must meet a high standard and that the solution may already be in-house. The conversation weighs the strategic value of developing Jones over drafting a tackle early, especially given the Bears' lack of a left tackle in Dane Brugler’s mock draft. While Marshall Harris expresses growing confidence in Jones as a potential Week 1 starter, he ultimately advocates for the 'best player available' strategy, suggesting that the Bears should avoid using a high draft pick on left tackle and instead develop talent internally. The episode also touches on the broader context of offensive line development under Ben Johnson and the importance of consistency and mental resilience in elite performance.
Braxton Jones is healthy and has a full offseason to prove himself as the starting left tackle.
The Bears may not need to draft a left tackle early if they can develop existing talent like Jones or Theo Benedett.
Dan Rochard emphasized that the ideal left tackle must meet a high standard and that the solution could be in-house.
The 2026 draft mock shows no left tackle selected for the Bears, suggesting confidence in internal development.
Consistency and mental toughness are critical for Jones to earn the starting role, especially after a major injury.
…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus
Braxton Jones' Injury and Return to Full Health
The episode opens with discussion on Braxton Jones' recovery from a complex ankle injury, emphasizing his progress and the importance of full conditioning for the 2026 season.
The Left Tackle Competition and Internal Options
The hosts analyze the depth at left tackle, including Theo Benedett, Jedrick Wills Jr., and Karan Amagaji, and discuss why the Bears may not need to draft a tackle early.
Dan Rochard’s Vision for the Left Tackle Position
“It's a faceless, nameless guy right now. It has to become the way we play the game at left tackle, similar to what's being done at right tackle.”
Braxton Jones’ Path to Starting Role
“He, just like Dan Roshar, joined the set. And this was earlier this week. Dan Roshar was back in February. And he talked about that very confidence that he has...”
Strategic Draft Considerations and Development Over Drafting
“I want best player available for them to be people on defense who can stop people. That's what I would like.”
“It's a faceless, nameless guy right now. It has to become the way we play the game at left tackle, similar to what's being done at right tackle.”
“Theo Benedett, an undrafted young man from Canada. And I told all three of them this. I know what the left tackle position looks like in this league. You are the standard.”
“I want best player available for them to be people on defense who can stop people. That's what I would like.”
Hosts
Guests
chicago bears
other
braxton jones
person
marshall harris
person
gabe ramirez
person
dan rochard
person
ben johnson
person
theo benedett
person
104.3 the score
media
mark grody
person
ozzy trapillo
person
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