The Cleveland Browns have officially signed Teven Jenkins to a one-year contract, the team announced Thursday.

At 27, Jenkins ranked No. 33 on The Athletic’s top 150 free agents list and was the fourth-highest guard available. Originally drafted in the second round by the Chicago Bears in 2021, he brings versatility to Cleveland’s offensive line, having also played tackle during his four-year career. Let’s dive into Teven Jenkins’ contract details, career, and more.

Teven Jenkins’ Early Life And Career

On March 3, 1998, Teven Jenkins was born in Topeka, Kansas. He attended Topeka High School, where he played football, basketball, and baseball. His performance in football earned him All-State honors during his junior and senior years. Recognized as a three-star recruit, Jenkins received scholarship offers from several universities, including Kansas State, Louisville, Missouri, and Nebraska. He chose to attend Oklahoma State University to continue his football career.

At Oklahoma State, Jenkins redshirted his first year in 2016, meaning he did not participate in games but practiced with the team. In 2017, he played in 12 games and started three of them. By his redshirt sophomore year in 2018, Jenkins became the starting right tackle, starting all 13 games. Due to an injury to a teammate, he also started three games at left tackle that season.

His consistent performance earned him an honorable mention in the All-Big 12 Conference. He repeated this achievement in his redshirt junior year in 2019. Jenkins started every game and earned a spot on the All-Big 12 Conference football team in his senior year in 2020.

Jenkins’ NFL Career

Jenkins declared for the NFL Draft after his senior year and was selected by the Chicago Bears in the second round, 39th overall, in the 2021 NFL Draft . He signed a four-year rookie contract with the Bears on June 16, 2021. However, his rookie season faced challenges as he underwent back surgery and was placed on injured reserve on September 1, 2021. He returned to the action later that year and made his NFL debut on December 5, 2021, against the Arizona Cardinals. Jenkins made his first career start on December 20, 2021, against the Minnesota Vikings.

In the 2022 season, the Bears transitioned Jenkins from offensive tackle to right guard during the preseason. He adapted to the new position and started 11 games at right guard before being placed on injured reserve on January 4, 2023. In April 2023, Jenkins announced he would move to left guard for the upcoming season, with the right guard spot being assigned to a new team member, Nate Davis. A calf injury led to Jenkins being placed on injured reserve on August 31, 2023, but he was activated for the Week 5 game against the Washington Commanders.

Over his tenure with the Bears, Jenkins demonstrated versatility by playing multiple positions on the offensive line. He appeared in 45 games, starting 38 of them across left tackle, left guard, and right guard positions. Despite facing injuries, Jenkins maintained a strong performance, earning a Pro Football Focus grade of 75.4 in the 2024 season.

On March 20, 2025, Jenkins signed a one-year contract with the Cleveland Browns. His addition aims to bolster the Browns’ offensive line, bringing experience and versatility to the team.
Teven Jenkins’ journey from Topeka High School to the NFL showcases his adaptability and resilience. His ability to overcome challenges and transition between different positions on the offensive line highlights his commitment to the sport and his teams.

Teven Jenkins’ Contract Details

The Cleveland Browns announced Thursday that they have signed free agent guard Teven Jenkins.

The Chicago Bears selected Jenkins 39th overall in the 2021 NFL Draft. Back surgery largely derailed his rookie season, limiting his early contributions. Originally drafted as a tackle under the Bears’ previous front office, Jenkins experienced multiple position changes throughout his time in Chicago. He began as a left tackle before shifting to right tackle and then right guard during the 2022 season. By 2023, he had settled in at left guard, where he started 22 games over the next two seasons.

Until recently, Jenkins had a salary of $2,096,962. Pro Football Focus had projected him as a candidate for a three-year contract worth up to $40 million, with $24 million guaranteed. The Browns are likely hoping to secure his services at a more team-friendly price while benefiting from his versatility and experience on the offensive line.