Bears claim former 1st-rounder Leatherwood off waivers

The Chicago Bears claimed former Las Vegas Raiders offensive lineman Alex Leatherwood off waivers, according to ESPN's Field Yates.

The Raiders parted ways with Leatherwood on Tuesday after reportedly failing to find a trade partner. The 17th overall pick in the 2021 draft failed to impress as a rookie guard and struggled massively at right tackle - his natural position - during the 2022 preseason.

Chicago will take on the remaining three years and fully guaranteed $5.9 million of Leatherwood's contract, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport. The Bears also gain the right to the lineman's fifth-year option.

Riley Reiff is tabbed as Chicago's starting right tackle while Teven Jenkins appears to be penciled in as the starting right guard. Jenkins was the subject of trade rumors earlier this offseason.

The Bears' offensive line allowed 58 sacks last season, with Justin Fields on the receiving end of 36 of them.

In addition to Leatherwood, the Bears also claimed defensive tackle Armon Watts, defensive back Josh Blackwell, defensive end Kingsley Jonathan, linebacker Sterling Weatherford, and tight end Trevon Wesco off waivers. Chicago's six claims were the most of any team, per Yates.

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