The Chicago Bears did not have many positives during their 24-17 loss at the hands of the New Orleans Saints in Week 9, but offensive lineman Teven Jenkins was one of the very few who did shine.
The third-year player out of Oklahoma State University recorded an overall PFF grade of 91.1, the top mark among all offensive linemen in Week 9. Jenkins’ grade also finished as the highest among his teammates and was the highest of his career.
Teven Jenkins: 91.1 PFF grade vs the Saints
🔹 1st among Bears players
🔸 1st among all O-linemen in Week 9
🔹 Career-high grade pic.twitter.com/fNyuEmcw8U— PFF CHI Bears (@PFF_Bears) November 6, 2023
The 25-year-old started the 2023 season on injured reserve, but since his return in Week 4, he has been a difference-maker. In five weeks of action, Jenkins has recorded an overall PFF grade of 78.1 through 307 offensive snaps played. Additionally, he is the only Bears offensive lineman not to allow a sack this season.
Teven Jenkins is the only Bears offensive lineman not to allow a sack or QB hit this season 💪 pic.twitter.com/ZhR7EA4sJ0
— PFF CHI Bears (@PFF_Bears) November 1, 2023
Without a doubt, Jenkins has been a star interior offensive lineman when healthy. But the problem is his ability to stay on the field. In each of his first three seasons, he has missed time due to injury.
Jenkins appeared in just five games as a rookie due to a back issue. In 2022, Jenkins appeared in 13 games, starting 11 and playing 576 offensive snaps. This year, a preseason calf injury landed Jenkins on injured reserve.
Injury luck hasn’t been on Jenkins’ side, but when on the field, the offensive lineman produces. 2021 was a wash, but his 2022 season was a step forward as he recorded an 80.7 PFF grade and allowed just two sacks. 2023, though beginning with injury, looks even more productive for the young lineman.
As Jenkins continues to improve, a payday will be headed his way after the 2024 campaign. Although he may not receive top-tier money due to his injury history, he will receive a nice sum to be the cornerstone of an interior offensive line.
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