With the left tackle job all but given to J’Marcus Webb, the Bears have yet another decision to make on yet another first-round pick of the previous regime who’s not in the long-term plan.
But unlike tight end Greg Olsen, who was traded to the Panthers last summer for a third-round pick, there’s not nearly as much of a market for tackle Chris Williams.
According to Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribune, despite speculation Williams could be moved, he’s more likely to stay as the swing tackle given his relatively reasonable $1 million salary, and his experience at four of the five positions on the line.
The 14th overall pick in the 2008 draft (taken before more proven starters Branden Albert and Gosder Cherilus), Williams was shifted to right tackle last week (behind Gabe Carimi), clearing the path for Webb to start on the left.
“I just want to play ball,” Williams said. “I want to start for this team. If I don’t, will I be disappointed? Yes. That’s just part of it.
“I’ve been trying to get ready for the season. I’ll let all that stuff work itself out. I am just here to do my job. I can’t control what the coaches are going to do decision-wise.”
Asked if he had plans to ask for a trade, Williams said: “That is not really my place. This is a position I have never really been in before. I’m just here working. Just trying to get a starting job.”
If he can’t get one on a Bears line that has been an issue for years, it’s hard to imagine Bears General Manager Phil Emery getting enough for him to justify the move.