Darnell Wright's dedication to Chicago shines as he eyes a lifelong career with the Bears, solidifying the right side of their dominant offensive line.
The offseason moves that Chicago Bears General Manager Ryan Poles made on the offensive line played a significant role this season.
Poles traded for Kansas City Chiefs guard Joe Thuney and Los Angeles Rams guard Jonah Jackson. He then went out and signed free agent center Drew Dalman.
It took a bit to figure out left tackle, but eventually, rookie Ozzy Trapilo secured the starting job there after his performance in the Week 12 win over the Pittsburgh Steelers.
The right side of the offensive line was held down by Jackson and right tackle Darnell Wright, who was extraordinary this season.
Luckily for the Bears, Wright still has time left on his contract, which expires in 2028. He is on a four-year, $20 million deal per Spotrac.
Wright was drafted 10th overall in the 2023 NFL Draft out of Tennessee. He showed just how much he wants to play for this team after flying separately to Santa Clara for the San Francisco 49ers game.
He was recovering from an illness, and it was uncertain whether or not he would play. The right tackle still made the trip after being cleared to play.
At a recent press conference, Wright shared how great it would be to play his whole NFL career with the Bears.
"Yeah, I would love to be," Wright said. "I would love to be on the team for my whole career for sure. That would be great."
Securing a solid offensive tackle like Wright for the future would definitely go a long way. He may not be Caleb Williams' blindside blocker, but consistent offensive linemen are tough to come by.
Wright understands that being available is an excellent trait for an offensive lineman. He has only missed two games in the three years he's been in the NFL.
Chicago will have some contract decisions to make this offseason, with starters like Kevin Byard and Jaquan Brisker set to become free agents. Depth pieces such as Olamide Zaccheaus, Braxton Jones, Theo Benedet and others are also up to be re-signed.
The Bears could also pick up Wright's fifth-year option even though he still won't become a free agent until 2028.
Everyone talks about how good Jackson, Thuney and Dalman were this season, but Wright doesn't get enough credit for locking down the right side of the offensive line.
Finishing out his career with the franchise would be the best-case scenario for a player of Wright's talent.