The Chicago Bears will be without offensive tackle Braxton Jones for the remainder of the 2026 NFL season.
According to The Chicago Tribune's Brad Biggs, Jones has elected to undergo surgery to repair a partially torn patellar tendon, ending any possibility of returning this season.
Jones suffered the injury during Chicago's Week 3 victory over the Philadelphia Eagles on September 28. He was subsequently placed on injured reserve, although the Bears initially hoped he'd eventually return.
After more than a month of evaluating his recovery, surgery became the preferred option.
Bears' left tackle situation remains unsettled
The injury is another frustrating setback for Jones, who re-signed with Chicago on a one-year contract worth up to $10 million during the offseason.
The former fifth-round pick entered 2026 hoping to reestablish himself as the Bears' long-term answer at left tackle. Instead, his season ends after just three games.
Theo Benedet has handled the starting left tackle responsibilities during Jones' absence, while 2025 second-round pick Ozzy Trapilo remains another option as he works his way back from a torn patellar tendon suffered during last season's playoffs.
For Jones, the timing couldn't be worse.
The 27-year-old is scheduled to become a free agent after the season, leaving his future in Chicago uncertain.
For the Bears, who improved to 6-2 following Monday's victory over Seattle, protecting Caleb Williams remains a priority as they are now considered a viable Super Bowl contender. Jones' absence makes that challenge even more important.
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