Bears' Darnell Wright Poised for Elite Status, Says Analyst Baldinger

Offensive tackle's toughness and talent highlighted despite injury struggles

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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Chicago Bears right tackle Darnell Wright, the 10th overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, has established himself as a dominant force on the offensive line, earning a top-20 Pro Football Focus grade among tackles for two consecutive seasons. Analyst Brian Baldinger praised Wright's ability to perform at a high level despite battling injuries, suggesting he has the potential to become one of the league's elite right tackles if he can stay healthy.

Why it matters

Wright's rapid development and consistent performance have made him a centerpiece of the Bears' offensive line upgrade efforts. His ability to neutralize elite pass rushers like Brian Burns highlights his growing reputation and impact on the team's offensive scheme. If Wright can remain healthy for a full season, his presence could dramatically improve the Bears' offensive line stability and competitiveness.

The details

In his third NFL season, Wright earned Second Team All-Pro recognition, showcasing his talent against top-tier opponents. His standout performance in Week 10, when he decisively blocked New York Giants edge rusher Brian Burns, drew considerable attention and reinforced his rising stature. Despite battling injuries, including a torn ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) in his right elbow that typically requires surgery for athletes, Wright missed only one game, demonstrating remarkable toughness.

  • In the 2023 NFL Draft, the Chicago Bears selected Darnell Wright as the 10th overall pick.
  • Wright has earned a top-20 Pro Football Focus grade among offensive tackles for two consecutive seasons (2024 and 2025).
  • In Week 10 of the 2025 season, Wright delivered a standout performance by neutralizing New York Giants edge rusher Brian Burns.
  • During the Bears' end-of-season press conference in 2025, general manager Ryan Poles expressed strong confidence in Wright's potential.
  • In February 2026, analyst Brian Baldinger appeared on 104.3 The Score's show Mully and Haugh to praise Wright's talents and resilience.

The players

Darnell Wright

A right tackle for the Chicago Bears who was selected 10th overall in the 2023 NFL Draft. Despite battling injuries, he has established himself as a dominant force on the offensive line, earning a top-20 Pro Football Focus grade among tackles for two consecutive seasons.

Brian Burns

An edge rusher for the New York Giants who finished the 2025 season ranked second in the league with 16.5 sacks.

Ryan Poles

The general manager of the Chicago Bears, who expressed strong confidence in Wright's potential during the team's end-of-season press conference in 2025.

Brian Baldinger

A football analyst and former NFL offensive lineman who praised Wright's talents and resilience on the 104.3 The Score's show Mully and Haugh in February 2026.

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What they’re saying

“I love watching him come off the ball and move people. When he has this confidence and belief in himself that he's the best on the field, I think he can be one of the best to do it. He just has to show up, and continue to put that work in and get there.”

— Ryan Poles, Chicago Bears General Manager (104.3 The Score)

“Now, he's been playing with these injuries, seemingly every year. I think it's been three years now. But he played through it this year, he played really well. I thought he had a really good season. I think he's got a home at right tackle. And, can he get into the upper echelon of right tackles? He's got the size and the ability to do it. I'd like to see him get through a season healthy, you know, where he doesn't have these nagging injuries.”

— Brian Baldinger, Former NFL Offensive Lineman and Analyst (104.3 The Score)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.