The Chicago Bears are making a move on the offensive line with the signing of former Denver Broncos offensive lineman Elijah Wilkinson, who could bring some competition to the vacant right tackle position, to a one-year deal.
Mike Klis, who covers the Broncos for 9News, originally reported that Wilkinson had a visit with the Bears on Tuesday, where a deal was close. Wilkinson soon after took to Instagram to share the news that he was a Bear.
Elijah Wilkinson confirms he’s a Bear. https://t.co/rEXfUdvweo https://t.co/RS8aPq4zAl
— Mike Klis (@MikeKlis) March 23, 2021
#Bears have signed OL Elijah Wilkinson according to his latest Instagram post. pic.twitter.com/mjQD4ciGuG
— Aaron Leming (@AaronLemingNFL) March 23, 2021
BIG MAN comin' thru! 😤
OL Elijah Wilkinson is headed to the Windy City. pic.twitter.com/nOfRuDfjX0
— Chicago Bears (@ChicagoBears) March 23, 2021
Chicago has a need at right tackle, where Wilkinson could certainly fit the bill. Wilkinson served as the Broncos’ top backup swing guard/tackle, and he’s appeared in 45 games, including 26 starts. While Wilkinson has started at both tackle and guard, he’s served mostly as a tackle for the Broncos since joining the league as an undrafted free agent in 2017.
But Wilkinson will have to win the job over Germain Ifedi, who recently re-signed a one-year deal with the Bears last week. Chicago will also likely be targeting an offensive tackle in next month’s draft. But there’s still certainly need for depth at the tackle position outside of a starting role.
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