Windy City Gridiron
The Player: Wright is a former Tennessee Volunteer and was the 10th overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft. Identified by Will Anderson as the toughest tackle he went up against in college, he went on to be on the PFWA All-Rookie Team as well as many other rookie honors. He’s a chess lover, actively playing chess online.
The Case For Him: He has allowed only one sack all year, and he has been a beast in the run game. He is 8th in ESPN’s Pass Block Win Rate despite going up against a number of high-level opponents all season long. He has been an anchor on an offensive line that leads the league in time-to-pressure, and that is at the top of the league in yards before contact on the ground. As of this writing, the right tackle is helping the team lead the league in EPA/rush play.
The Case Against Him: There are a few other well-established tackles who are also playing well. The argument against him is not that he is unworthy, it’s that others are equally worthy.
Rebuttal: All-Pro Jalen Carter, then-NFL sack leader Brian Burns, and first-round draft pick Shemar Stewart will provide the context for #58’s case.
Wright is one of multiple Bears in contention for the Pro Bowl this year. Support him by voting here, and check out the other Bears players in contention, per Tom Peliserro.
Defensive Line: Defensive End-Montez Sweat (#8)
Defensive Back: Free Safety-Kevin Byard (#1), Cornerback-Nahshon Wright (#2), Strong Safety-Jaquan Brisker (#9)
Offensive Line: Guard-Joe Thuney (#1), Center-Drew Dalman (#2), Tackle-Darnell Wright (#4), and Guard-Jonah Jackson (#7)
Skills Players: Quarterback-Caleb Williams (#7), Tight End-Colston Loveland (#8), Wide Receiver-Rome Odunze (#10), Running Back-D’Andre Swift (#10)
Special Teams Players: Special Team Player-Josh Blackwell (#3), Long Snapper-Scott Daly (#3), Returner-Devin Duvernay (#4), Punter-Tory Taylor (#8)
