Bears GM Makes Honest Admission About Braxton Jones' Future

"I think Braxton did a good job," Poles said Tuesday morning of Jones' 2024 season. "Obviously, you never want guys to go through injuries, and we've got to see how he comes on the other side of this. I know everything's been progressing on schedule and he's doing a good job with that."

At the same time, Poles said he expects there will be "competition" for the left tackle job coming into the 2025 season despite Jones' anticipated return.

"I think, again, that's another spot where there's going to be competition," Poles added, "and you build the [offensive] line with the best five guys, so we'll see how that goes through this offseason and in training camp."

Jones often does not get enough credit for his solid play at the blindside spot, but Chicago would be wise to hedge their bets heading into the 2025 season.

Not only is the 25-year-old coming off a significant injury, but he is also entering the final year of his rookie contract, giving the Bears roughly a year to decide whether they want to sign him to a potentially high-priced contract extension.

Maybe Jones can prove deserving of a new deal. After all, he finished with the 17th-best pass-blocking grade (80.8) from Pro Football Focus in 2024 despite allowing five sacks and 26 pressures and has gradually improved his technique.

Don't be surprised if Poles capitalizes on a chance to replace him, though.

The Bears will have an estimated $79.6 million in cap space for free agency, giving them the resources to pursue one of the top tackles on the market, such as either Baltimore's Ronnie Stanley or Minnesota's Cam Robinson.

The Bears could also target a top tackle prospect — maybe LSU's Will Campbell or Texas' Kelvin Banks Jr. — with the 10th overall pick in this year's draft.