Teven Jenkins

The Chicago Bears are activating young OL Teven Jenkins from injured reserve, and he will be in the active lineup for Thursday Night Football against the Washington Commanders.

Fantasy Impact

The Bears have struggled across the board in 2023, the offensive line included. And though Jenkins hasn't been perfect to start his NFL career — part of which can be attributed to injuries — he gives the O-line new life and more help. It's a great night to get reinforcements as well, as the Commanders have 13 sacks in four games (tied for seventh with game splits of 3/7/0/3).

Teven Jenkins (leg) is being designated to return from Chicago's injured reserve.

Fantasy Impact

Jenkins has been out for the first four games of the season while on injured reserve because of a leg injury. The team has now designated him to return, opening his 21-day practice window. It seems like a long shot that he will play on Thursday against the Commanders, but he will offer a huge boost to this Bears' offensive line whenever he's healthy and back on the field.

Teven Jenkins (leg) has been placed on short-term IR. He will miss at least the first four games of the season.

Fantasy Impact

The 25-year-old has dealt with injuries throughout his career, and that trend will continue to start the 2023 season. Ja'Tyre Carter and Larry Borom are the likeliest candidates to start at left guard to begin the season.

Bears OL Teven Jenkins practiced on Monday for the first time since he underwent back surgery this past August.

Fantasy Impact

Jenkins' presence is a welcome sight for a Bears offensive line that will most likely have some turnover this upcoming offseason. His return should only help Justin Fields and company.

Per Ian Rapoport of NFL Network, Bears HC Matt Nagy informed the media that LT Teven Jenkins, selected in the second round of the 2021 NFL Draft, will undergo back surgery, but the Bears "hope to have him back this season".

Fantasy Impact

Considering the draft capital the Bears invested in Jenkins and the already shaky state of their offensive line this is not the ideal situation for the team or the unit as a whole. In part, this sheds light on the recent signing of veteran OL Jason Peters which was probably done as a way to soften the blow of Jenkins' absence. The fact that there is no definitive time line on a return for Jenkins also means that it's possible the rookie doesn't play in 2021 at all. If that is the case this would be a big hit for the Bears as they were relying on Jenkins to be an immediate contributor and somebody who could protect the blind side of future franchise QB Justin Fields whenever he takes over the job for the Bears.