Can Justin Jones burst onto the scene for the Chicago Bears in 2022?

Lake Forest, Ill.— When the Chicago Bears signed defensive tackle Justin Jones to a two-year deal worth $12M in free agency, head coach Matt Eberflus knew exactly what his team was getting: A solid veteran who understood the nuances of football, giving the Bears a solid presence that would anchor the middle of the defensive line.

Entering his fifth NFL season, Jones spent the first four years of his career with the Los Angeles Chargers, totaling 35 starts, 4.5 sacks, 118 tackles, and 13 quarterback hits. With the Bears set to report to training camp in late July, Jones should see plenty of reps as the starting defensive tackle, giving him a chance to become a regular starter for the third consecutive season.

“I love the room I’m in right now,” Jones said during the Bears OTA sessions in May. “As for the scheme, it’s just that penetrating three-technique, get off the ball and really just effort. That’s kind of the state of my game, I feel like.”

Jones own words showcase optimism that he can quickly become a leader for the Bears defensive line, a positional group that saw ample turnover this offseason. As Chicago continues to transition to a 4-3 defense, Jones own experience playing three technique gives younger players a legitimate mentor to look up to. As the Bears continue to figure out a new identity on defense, Jones continues to set the tone for the entire unit.

“We’re going to get down the field, we’re knocking guys back, we’re being aggressive, we’re being disruptive, making plays in the backfield, having fun together, party at the quarterback.”

As Chicago continues to prepare for the 2022 season, the defense has some key building blocks in players such as linebacker Roquan Smith and cornerback Jaylon Johnson returning from last season. With the Bears looking to establish a foundation on defense that will be successful for years to come, Jones has a prime opportunity to quickly become part of the Bears future.