Under head coach Ben Johnson, the Chicago Bears have a big-time, powerful offense that brings importance to every starter, especially at center, which is one of the most vital positions on offense.
After veteran Drew Dalman suddenly retired this offseason, just one season into his three-year deal with the Bears, the franchise made a quick move to trade for veteran Garrett Bradbury, but then turned around and used a second-round pick on Logan Jones in the 2026 NFL Draft.
Jones was an anchor for the Iowa Hawkeyes and their offense, starting 51 consecutive games from 2022 through 2025, where he won the Rimmington Trophy award for the nation’s top center. Joining Chicago as the No. 57 pick, Jones has quite the opportunity to come in and win the starting center job in his first season in the NFL, and understands his relationship with Caleb Williams is of the utmost importance. Jones recently detailed how he builds his relationship with quarterbacks, putting importance both on and off the field.
“I was fortunate, the quarterbacks I’ve played with, I was very close with all of them,” Jones said. “Whether it be like a trip down to the lake or something like that, but just communication. We wanted to take as much off the quarterback’s plate so he can just go out there and play. He already has so much on to do in the handle, so if I can take a little bit off him, get the points and things like that, it makes life easier. As long as we’re on the same page and communicating, we’ll be alright.”
Last season, Jones worked with Mark Gronowski at quarterback, the winningest quarterback in NCAA history, who redefined the position for the Hawkeyes in his lone season. Gronowski set a program record at the quarterback position with 545 rushing yards, including 16 rushing touchdowns, which would also be a credit to Jones and the entire offensive line. If Jones wants an opportunity to crack the starting lineup, he’ll certainly put plenty of effort and work in with Williams on and off the field to build their chemistry ahead of the 2026 season.
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This article originally appeared on Bears Wire: Bears OL Logan Jones discusses building rapport with Caleb Williams
Reporting by Mike Pendleton, Bears Wire / Bears Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
