Larry Borom has been with the Chicago Bears for the last three years, but he may find himself on a different team at the start of the 2024 regular season.
In his April 17 Q&A column, Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribune, who has considerable knowledge about the Bears, responded to a question about Borom and his future in Chicago.
He mentioned the possibility of the team drafting a tackle, which could lead to a crowded situation. If Borom doesn't fit into the team's plans, the best scenario would be to find a trade partner, according to Biggs.
Although his salary might pose a challenge, if another team values him, Borom's experience in 39 games played and 23 starts could make him appealing in a trade. Biggs proposed that the Bears might be able to trade him for a late-round pick or involve him in a pick swap.
A Closer Look at Bears OL Larry Borom’s Salary, Trade Value
Selected in the fifth round by the Chicago Bears in 2021, Borom has participated in 39 games and started 23 over three seasons with the team. However, he was selected by the previous general manager, and the current GM might not have the same attachment to him.
Borom's significant time on the field over the last three years has resulted in a $2 million pay increase for the 2024 season, which could impact the team's decision on whether to keep him.
Borom's playing time in his first three seasons triggered an increase in his base salary to $3.116 million, which might be more than the Bears are willing to pay, given their recent signing of Jake Curhan for $1.055 million on a one-year deal, noted Biggs.
“Curhan will have to win the job as the swing offensive tackle, and who knows what that competition looks like right now.”
Borom and Curhan aren’t the only notable options at swing tackle for Chicago, however.
A Look at the Bears’ Current Swing Tackle Options
In addition to Curhan and Borom, the Bears also signed veteran offensive lineman Matt Pryor, who should also compete for the starting swing tackle position. Pryor, 29, has played in 75 games over his five NFL seasons, starting 24. He's familiar with Bears head coach Matt Eberflus from their time with the Indianapolis Colts during the 2021 season.
Curhan also has ties to the Bears’ staff after playing with offensive coordinator Shane Waldron in Seattle.
That could leave Borom as the odd man out. Still, considering his experience and ability to play multiple positions on the line, Borom may stick around, at least for the 2024 season. Beyond that, his future with the team is probably non-existent.
The 25-year-old offensive lineman has played 1,012 snaps at right tackle, 493 snaps at left tackle and over 60 snaps at both guard positions combined (stats via PFF). His versatility should be beneficial, whether he remains in Chicago or moves to another team.
“Borom also has the flexibility to play inside at guard. But he’d be a guy to keep an eye on in training camp, and if he performs well, the salary wouldn’t make keeping him prohibitive,” Biggs added.
