It seems GM Ryan Poles and head coach Matt Eberflus finally decided to take the offensive line situation seriously. On paper, there were glaring holes at both guard and tackle going into training camp. Now in the space of 24 hours, they've managed to ease the concerns at both spot. First, they signed veteran guard Michael Schofield who should take over on the right side, barring anything unexpected. Now according to Adam Schefter, the team reached an agreement with former 1st round tackle
Riley Reiff.
The 33-year-old had a decent if unremarkable season last year. Still, he helped the Cincinnati Bengals reach the Super Bowl, allowing 24 pressures and four sacks across 12 games. He was unfortunately missed during the playoffs thanks to a season-ending ankle injury. His signing now suggests he is fully recovered and ready to resume his career. Fun fact? The Bears become the third NFC North team he'll play for in his career.
Chicago Bears offensive line is better than it was last week.
That is what matters. Nobody will accuse Schofield and Reiff of being great players. They can best be described as "adequate" starters. It isn't ideal, but it's far better than what the Bears had to work with a few days ago. Both men are serviceable pass protectors, which is great news for Justin Fields, who took a beating last year. The big question is what this ends up doing for
Teven Jenkins and Larry Borom. Both looked like obvious starters in the spring.
Now they're fighting for a chance even to play. Assuming Reiff is the immediate favorite for right tackle, Borom and Jenkins will compete with rookie
Braxton Jones for the left tackle spot. If nothing else, these moves further Poles' goal from the beginning. He wanted to improve the depth and competition along the entire offensive line. Every single spot has a battle going on now. It should only serve the team well as the season unfolds. The Chicago Bears are a better team with his presence.
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