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Is it time to worry about Bears RT Darnell Wright?

Chicago Bears RT Darnell Wright continues to have an injury-plagued 2024 training camp.

Published

1 year ago

August 7, 2024

Bryan Perez

Todd Rosenberg/GettyImages

I’m not one to panic about training camp bumps and bruises, but when the big uglies miss extended periods of time, I start to get nervous.

I felt those nerves when Teven Jenkins had a prolonged and mysterious absence from training camp practices as a rookie. It didn’t make sense, and the silence around his status made it worse. It lingered well into his rookie year. I’m starting to get those same tingles regarding second-year tackle Darnell Wright, who couldn’t finish practice on Wednesday after missing the previous three days with an undisclosed injury.

According to ALLCHGO’s Nicholas Moreano, Wright “looked like he was in pain” during his final two snaps before bowing out.

Not great.

Michael Reaves/Getty Images

Bears can’t afford long-term injury to Darnell Wright

Darnell Wright is a critical factor in the Chicago Bears” offense reaching its potential in 2024 and beyond. He’s charged with being a bookend for franchise savior Caleb Williams, and if he’s less than 100% healthy at the start of the season, Williams’ development will be impacted.

MORE: Chicago Bears 2024 Rookie Expectations — Rome Odunze

Again, not great.

Wright was a reliable workhorse during his rookie season after being selection with the 10th overall pick in the 2023 NFL draft. He started all 17 games and logged 1,127 snaps. He’s a power player with incredible athletic traits, a combination that gives him a chance to emerge as one of the NFL’s best all-around offensive tackles. But injuries can derail even the most promising careers, and while we’re not quite at that level of concern, we’re definitely past the point of no concern.

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