For the first time in 12 years, the Philadelphia Eagles are without “The Bodyguard.” As of Saturday afternoon, offensive tackle Jason Peters has reached a deal with the Chicago Bears.
THE REIGN OF JASON PETERS
Jason Peters began his NFL career in 2004 by signing with the Buffalo Bills. In 2009, he was traded to the Philadelphia Eagles and has since become a legend in The City of Brotherly Love.
During his time in Philadelphia, he played under head coach Andy Reid, Chip Kelly, and Doug Pederson. Peters was selected for seven (out of nine total) Pro Bowls, was First-team All-Pro twice, Second-team All-Pro twice, and was named to NFL’s 2010s All-Decade Team. He also secured his first Super Bowl championship in 2018 against the New England Patriots.
Following that year, Peters signed two consecutive one-year contracts. In 2019 Peters gave up only three total sacks and was given a season grade of 82.4 by Pro Football Focus. His 2020 season began differently as he was signed to play right guard for the first time in his career. He moved back to left tackle shortly after. Unfortunately for Peters, last season was not his finest as he was unable to secure tackles and was placed on the injured reserve list twice. He played just eight games in 2020.
Peters will now leave the Eagles with 148 games under his belt played in midnight green.
THE EAGLE IS FLYING [MID] WEST
As of this weekend, the Chicago Bears have reached an agreement with Jason Peters. Peters, who is now 39 years old, will sign a one-year contract to compete for the starting left tackle job under head coach Matt Nagy.
Nagy stated, “It’s about familiarity with a guy that’s played in this league for a long time and has been very good. We understand that he’s older.” Nagy continued, “For us to bring him in, he knows there is great competition. We are trying to do everything we can to provide protection and have a great run game. I think he’s coming in here to compete to be the starting left tackle. It’s open, man. It’s a competition.”
Before Peters’ signing, the Bears had rookie second-round pick Teven Jenkins, at left tackle. However, Jenkins has not attended training camp due to a back injury.
This Saturday, the Bears played their first preseason game against the Miami Dolphins (winning 20-13). At left tackle was Elijah Wilkinson, who didn’t play as the team would have hoped. The addition of Peters now adds experience and depth to their offensive line.
Peters will also be reunited with former Eagles’ quarterback Nick Foles.
Though it will be odd not to see Peters in an Eagles jersey this season, he has played a career worthy of the Hall of Fame and will always be remembered for his time in Philadelphia.
