Chicago Bears lineman predicted to follow Joe Thuney’s footsteps

Imagn Images

Chicago Bears lineman predicted to follow Joe Thuney’s footsteps

Originally posted on ChiCitySports | By Dan Fappiano | Last updated Oct 15, 2026 9:23 AM ET

When Ben Johnson was named head coach, the Chicago Bears put forward a full force approach to improve their offensive line. No matter who is playing quarterback, the Bears wanted to be stout in the trenches.

That led to the addition of guards Joe Thuney and Jonah Jackson. Thuney won the inaugural Protector of the Year Award. Jackson’s 83.5 grade from Pro Football Focus ranks sixth/75 guards. Both interior lineman have helped Chicago’s offensive line rank fourth overall entering Week 6, via PFF.

Before Thuney and Jackson’s arrivals, the Bears did have one spot on their offensive line locked in. Right tackle Darnell Wright has transformed into one of the best at his position in the league. His 89.7 grade from PFF ranks second/72 tackles.

If Wright keeps performing as he has, he’ll only become more of a household name. Some around the league believe his 2026 will etch his name right next to Thuney’s.

Chicago Bears’ Darnell Wright gets award prediction

Jan 5, 2025; Green Bay, Wisconsin, USA; Chicago Bears offensive tackle Darnell Wright (58) during the game against the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-Imagn Images

While left tackle has been a revolving door in Chicago, Wright has been starting at the position since 2023. His stability gives the Bears one less thing to worry about. It also gives Chicago’s run game a clear blocker to run behind and more confidence for whoever is under center.

Soon, that will be Caleb Williams again. He’ll be relying on Wright to keep him upright in the pocket. If the Bears soar as was expected entering 2026, Seth Walder of ESPN predicts Wright will finish in the top five of Protector of the Year voting.

“Offensive tackle Darnell Wright will finish in the top five in Protector of the Year voting,” Walder wrote. “Wright currently has pass block and run block win rates in the 79th and 52nd percentiles at tackle, respectively, so he has work to do. But getting himself onto Protector of the Year ballots is possible, especially if the Bears’ offense takes off again once Caleb Williams gets back on the field.”

There is still a lot of football to be played. But thus far, Wright has played the part of an elite right tackle. Award or not, the Bears are counting on him to continue being a leader on the right side of the offensive line.

This article first appeared on ChiCitySports and was syndicated with permission.

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