Adding two former Pro Bowl guards in the space of 24 hours must be something worth applauding. In 2021, people could've made a legitimate case that Jonah Jackson and Joe Thuney were two of the five best guards in the sport. That is still the case for Thuney, while Jackson went through some struggles last year in Los Angeles. Even so, he's 28 years old and familiar with Ben Johnson's offense. There is no reason to believe he can't rebound in Chicago. If both play up to their customary levels, this offensive line just got way better. There is one problem, though. Jackson and Thuney are both left guards. They've played the majority of their respective careers at that position. That puts the Bears in a dilemma. Which one of them should switch to the right side? Tom Thayer had an answer for that.
The former Bears guard and current color analyst spoke on FOX 32 Chicago about the two trades. He was eventually asked about the situation with both men being left guards. In Thayer's mind, the decision won't be difficult. Thuney is more of a natural left guard. He's been an All-Pro there for years. Jackson should have no issue switching to right guard, especially since he's right-handed.
Tom Thayer would know better than anybody.
He played both positions between college and the NFL. He's watched countless players over the course of a long broadcasting career. If he says the alignment will be Thuney left and Jackson right, it is reasonable to assume new offensive line coach Dan Roushar will see it the same way. From here, the objective seems rather simple. The Bears need to find a solution at center. They don't have anybody on the roster capable of starting. Coleman Shelton is a free agent and likely not considered a good fit for Ben Johnson's offense. That means they will likely go hunting for one starting next week when free agency begins.
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