The position battle at left tackle was a significant focus for the Chicago Bears during their preseason opener at Soldier Field on Saturday. Kiran Amegadjie shared playing time with Jedrick Wills Jr. Despite their competition, it appears Braxton Jones is poised to start if healthy. Currently sidelined, Bears coach Ben Johnson expects Jones to return soon, likely next week.
The Bears drafted Amegadjie, a 6-foot-5, 326-pound graduate from Hinsdale Central, in the third round of the 2024 NFL Draft. They had high expectations for him when he came from Yale. His rookie season included two games with notable playing time. Unfortunately, an elbow injury placed him on injured reserve last season.
“Haven’t played football in almost a year now,” Amegadjie said. “So it was good to get my feet back under me and get some reps in. There’s obviously things to clean up and a couple plays I want back. I’m healthy, which is a significant thing, and I’m able to stay on the field. When I’m able to stay on the field, that’s how I know I can get better. I believe in myself and my ability.”
In the 34-10 win over Cleveland, the Browns used their starters briefly, allowing Amegadjie to face off against Jared Verse, acquired in a trade involving Myles Garrett. Wills took over after two series but conceded a sack to Cleveland’s Julian Okwara. Amegadjie also allowed Okwara to bypass him, although Bears quarterback Tyson Bagent avoided a sack.
During training camp at Halas Hall, Bears offensive linemen Kiran Amegadjie, Jedrick Wills Jr., and Jordan McFadden participated in warm-ups. Coach Johnson expressed concern over quarterback hits during the first half. “I felt like our quarterback got hit more than I would like,” Johnson commented. “Tyson certainly did in the first half. (Left tackle) is hard to assess right now. Sometimes that trench play requires a detailed look from behind.”
Amegadjie performed a successful two-minute drill late in the second quarter and secured playing time in the second half. His career progress remains steady, offering potential for further growth.
“I think in the run game, I’m physical, I move people,” Amegadjie stated. “The pass game is where I need improvement. I need to refine my set and be consistent. Honestly, all of it is technique-based. It’s a little frustrating. But it feels like if I could get that small bit, I’ll play at a consistent level.”
A notable story involving Amegadjie traces back to a chance meeting at Kemper Lakes in Kildeer, where his father, Boris, met Matt Eberflus, the Bears coach at the time. This encounter led to Amegadjie’s introduction to his future coach. The move from the Ivy League to the NFL was substantial, but Amegadjie remains self-assured.
“I wouldn’t say it has anything to do with where I attended school,” he explained. “I think it’s just inherent to who I am. I believe in myself, and I know whatever I set my mind to, I can achieve. Everybody has a different path in the NFL. Mine has been rocky so far. But I get up every day, and I’m excited to come to the building. I’m eager to work and improve.”
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