Braxton Jones Saved His Best Game Yet For The Bills

The Chicago Bears 2022 draft class was easily the highlight of Sunday's game against the Buffalo Bills. The final score won't reflect that. Even so, there was a lot to be excited about for fans. Kyler Gordon snagged another interception. Jaquan Brisker had a sack. Velus Jones had over 100 kick return yards and hauled in a 44-yard bomb from Justin Fields. Yet as amazing as it may sound, the best rookie on the field that chilly afternoon was left tackle Braxton Jones. He had arguably his best performance of the season.

Remember, the Buffalo defensive line has 19 sacks this year, even without the presence of Von Miller. It's a deep and capable group. They went against Jones 32 times in that game and only got past him once. The rookie had 12 true pass sets, or one-on-one blocking situations. He didn't allow a single pressure. He also didn't commit a penalty. Chicago also averaged 4.5 yards per carry when running behind him. It was another reminder GM Ryan Poles may have scored a massive hit in the 5th round pick.

Braxton Jones isn't even scratching the surface.

Don't forget he spent his college career playing against second-rate competition. He didn't have the luxuries a top program offers from coaching or training. He was drafted chiefly because he is a unique physical specimen. He's 6'5 and 310 lbs but moves surprisingly well. His quick feet and long arms made him an obvious option for a pro left tackle. Teams needed to determine whether he could handle the speed and power of the NFL. The first hasn't bothered him much at all. It's the second that took some getting used to.

Opposing pass rushers have successfully utilized bull rushes and various power moves against the rookie. That wasn't a huge surprise to the Bears. They knew learning how to drop anchor would be one of his biggest challenges. It takes time. Based on recent results, Braxton Jones has come a long way in that department. Imagine how much better he'll get with a full off-season of work next spring and summer. If he's this good already, there should be a significant improvement on the horizon.

Finding a left tackle is one of the hardest things to do in the NFL. This Bears regime may have pulled it off on their first try.