​The Bears’ star offensive lineman has just earned a substantial vote of confidence from executives and coaches across the NFL, and that support could translate into a lucrative payday soon. Chicago’s Darnell Wright, the standout right tackle and 2023 first-round pick, remains unsigned on a contract extension as he enters the final year of his rookie deal this fall. Wright has been one of the standout players at his position, and over the summer he found himself with even more reinforcement from league observers.
ESPN conducted a poll of NFL personnel to determine the top 10 offensive tackles, and Wright’s name appeared among the elite, reinforcing the belief that he belongs among the league’s best. He landed on several ballots as high as No. 2, though there were also some who did not include him in their top 10. The consensus among many evaluators is that his combination of power and physical presence makes him a formidable force on the field.
“Power and brute strength,” one NFL insider told ESPN, echoing the high regard for Wright’s physical toolkit. “He can do whatever he wants on a football field.” That capacity for dominance has manifested in Wright’s run-blocking prowess, where he has helped unlock Chicago’s rushing attack. Under Ben Johnson’s guidance in his first season as head coach, the Bears ranked third in the NFL in rushing, totaling 2,456 yards at 4.9 yards per carry. That strong ground game reflects Wright’s impact on the line and its ability to open lanes for the offense.
Yet, there are notes of caution from seasoned observers. A veteran NFL defensive coach cited Wright’s need for continued development, specifically in maintaining a consistently high motor. “That’s the next step for him,” the coach told ESPN. While his run blocking is exceptional, pass protection is another area where Wright can still climb. Even so, his pass blocking last season was impressive by several metrics: he allowed only three sacks and 24 quarterback pressures, both career lows, across 740 pass-blocking snaps. In other words, Wright made meaningful progress in pass protection without sacrificing his run-game effectiveness.
As the offseason progresses, all eyes will be on whether the Bears and Wright can finalize a new contract. If negotiations stall, there will be no shortage of interested suitors around the league, ready to roll out the red carpet to secure a player of his caliber. Wright’s performance in 2023 laid a strong foundation for a lucrative extension, and the surrounding praise from coaches, scouts, and executives only underscores the premium value teams place on his rare blend of power, athleticism, and versatility on the right side of the line.
This article originates from A to Z Sports, which also provided the original reporting and broader coverage of Darnell Wright’s situation and the surrounding opinions within the NFL’s evaluating community.