Does Christian Darrisaw extension impact Bears negotiation with Braxton Jones?

Chicago Bears offensive tackle Braxton Jones is entering a critical season. Jones has established himself as a three-year starter at left tackle. The 2022 fifth-rounder will become eligible to sign an extension with the Bears next offseason. General manager Ryan Poles may have interest in having those discussions.

Jones has emerged as a solution at a problem position for the Bears. The Southern Utah standout totaled 715 snaps at left tackle last season, earning stellar Pro Football Focus grades of 68.8 (overall), 70.8 (pass protection), and 68.2 (run blocking). Jones’ steady play has delayed the Bears’ need to find a long-term blindside protector for Caleb Williams, though Poles did spend a third-rounder during the 2024 draft on Kiran Amegadjie.

Jones was credited with allowing just two sacks and 32 quarterback pressures last season, and it’s worth acknowledging Justin Fields was known to hold onto the football. Penalties were an issue, but not a glaring weakness. Jones was whistled for nine infractions, 11th-most among all qualifying tackles.

The offensive line market has exploded this offseason, and another development from earlier this week may impact Jones’ potential negotiations with the Bears. The Minnesota Vikings signed standout left tackle Christian Darrisaw to a four-year extension worth $113 million, making him one of the highest-paid tackles in the NFL. Darrisaw’s extension includes $77 million in guarantees.

Vikings, LT Christian Darrisaw agree to terms on 4-year, $113M extension including $77M guaranteed. (via @TomPelissero, @RapSheet) pic.twitter.com/7r4GFQ0XIe

— NFL (@NFL) July 23, 2024

Jones’ base salary for 2024 is $985,000, according to Over The Cap. Being underpaid will ensure Jones is monitoring the tackle market closely. If he enjoys a career-best season, he’ll be positioned to command a significant raise prior to 2025.

It’s worth acknowledging Jones isn’t the caliber of tackle Darrisaw is. So although Jones isn’t going to command numbers in Darrisaw’s ballpark, he could take a significant step towards earning a lucrative extension by stringing together the most impressive campaign of his young career.

If Jones keeps Williams well protected, the Bears won’t mind paying top dollar to ensure their most significant investment in franchise history is kept safe and sound.