With the offensive line trade market historically being weak, the Chicago Bears could capitalize big time if they are willing to part ways with one of their former starters.
That former starter is tackle Braxton Jones, who recently lost his starting job after three-plus seasons with the team. Jones is currently on injured reserve, but he is expected to return this season and can be traded despite being on the list.
One team that would probably have interest in Jones is the Los Angeles Chargers, who were predicted by USA TODAY's Jacob Camenker to acquire the Bears offensive lineman at the trade deadline.
Jones lost his starting job with the Bears to undrafted rookie Theo Benedet. Ben Johnson also has rookie second-round pick Ozzy Trapilo on the roster, so it's hard to imagine Jones finding a considerable role with the Bears long-term.
There aren't often tackles with high-level starting experience available on the trade market. Jones has made 44 at left tackle and would provide top-tier swing tackle depth for the Chargers, who have dealt with numerous injuries to the tackle position and could immediately find a starting role for Jones.
The Chargers lost left tackle Rashawn Slater for the season and are now starting right tackle Joe Alt in his place.
That has left a shaky situation at right tackle, where the team is currently relying on journeyman Bobby Hart, who took the place of the struggling Trey Pipkins after he got hurt.
Jones offers 44 games of starting experience and has proven to be a decent starter during his career. Jones has struggled this season, but he was solid in 2024, with grades of 80.8 in pass protection and 70.2 in run-blocking, per PFF.
Jones has played all of his career snaps at left tackle, but he could easily move over to the right side in Los Angeles, where there would be a path for him to start.
Chicago may opt to hold on to Jones for depth, but if the Bears get a better-than-expected offer because of the aforementioned thin offensive line market, Chicago might opt to part ways with its former fifth-round pick.
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