Topic overview
In brief
- Darnell Wright signed a four-year, $116 million extension with the Chicago Bears, making him the highest-paid right tackle in NFL history.
- Wright's performance last season earned him second-team All-Pro honors and he credited head coach Ben Johnson for his development.
- The Bears aim to maintain their competitive edge in the NFC as they prepare for the upcoming season.
Summary
In the United States, the Chicago Bears made headlines by securing a significant contract extension for their starting right tackle, Darnell Wright. This four-year extension, valued at $116 million, includes a remarkable $93 million guaranteed, making Wright the highest-paid right tackle in NFL history. The Bears drafted Wright in the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft, selecting him as the 10th overall pick from the University of Tennessee. His performance during the previous season earned him second-team All-Pro honors, showcasing his skills and contributions to the team.
Wright's impressive statistics include an overall PFF grade of 81.4, ranking him 14th among 89 qualified tackles, and a run-block grade of 85.6, placing him sixth in the league. His success on the field has been attributed to the support and confidence instilled in him by head coach Ben Johnson. Wright expressed gratitude for Johnson's belief in his abilities, noting that it was the first time a coach had directly communicated their reliance on him as a key player in the offense.