Bears: LT Teven Jenkins working with team's trainers

Teven Jenkins was not on the practice field for the sixth consecutive day, but Chicago Bears head coach Matt Eberflus shed light on his extended absence Wednesday.

Eberflus said Jenkins, a second-round pick in 2021, is at Halas Hall and working out with team trainers because of an injury, contrary to reports of a standoff that could lead to a trade. NFL Network reported Monday that the Bears were fielding calls focused on trade offers for Jenkins.

Asked again Wednesday if Jenkins' absence is 100 percent injury-related, Eberflus replied, "Yeah."

Eberflus said Jenkins is considered day-to-day.

Injuries have defined Jenkins' career to this point. He began training camp as a rookie only to be shut down almost immediately with a chronic back issue. Jenkins had back surgery in mid-August 2021.

Jenkins, 24, fell out of the first round in the 2021 NFL Draft because of reported red flags with his back and core strength.

But the Bears -- under the direction of since-fired general manager Ryan Pace -- traded up to select Jenkins 39th overall with the idea he would be ready to start at left tackle as a rookie and released Charles Leno.

He returned to practice in November and played six games with two starts in 2021.