Bears Exploring Options at Left Tackle After Ozzy Trapilo Injury

Chicago Bears coach Ben Johnson discusses uncertainty at the left tackle position and the team's plans to address it.

Mar. 30, 2026 at 6:12pm

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A cubist-style painting depicting the Chicago Bears' offensive line in a fragmented, geometric style, with the left tackle position highlighted and abstracted, reflecting the uncertainty surrounding this critical position.The Bears' search for a new left tackle highlights the team's need to rebuild and reconfigure its offensive line for the 2026 season.Chicago Today

The Chicago Bears are facing uncertainty at the left tackle position after rookie Ozzy Trapilo suffered a torn patellar tendon in the NFC Wild Card round. Coach Ben Johnson said the team is exploring both long-term and short-term solutions, which could include the 2026 NFL Draft, a training camp competition, or potentially signing a free agent. Johnson emphasized the Bears won't force a pick and will stay true to their draft board. The team is also focused on improving the wide receiver corps, with Johnson stressing the need for more consistent separation and fewer drops.

Why it matters

The left tackle position is a critical one for the Bears' offensive line, and Trapilo's injury leaves a significant hole that needs to be filled. How the team addresses this issue will have a major impact on the success of the offense in the 2026 season. Additionally, the development of the wide receiver group is crucial for the continued growth of quarterback Caleb Williams and the overall passing attack.

The details

The Bears tried several options at left tackle last season before Trapilo took over the starting job in November. With Trapilo's injury, the team is exploring both long-term and short-term solutions. This could include using one of their two second-round picks in the 2026 NFL Draft to select an offensive tackle, or holding a training camp competition between Braxton Jones, Jedrick Wills Jr., and Theo Benedet. The Bears are also keeping an eye on the free agent market for a potential starter. Johnson emphasized the team won't force a pick and will stay true to their draft board. At wide receiver, Johnson wants to see more consistent separation and fewer drops from the group, which lost DJ Moore and Olamide Zaccheaus in the offseason. The team is focused on fundamentals during OTAs and is excited about the addition of Kalif Raymond, who Johnson has worked with before.

  • Ozzy Trapilo suffered a torn patellar tendon in the NFC Wild Card round against the Packers.
  • The Bears have two second-round picks in the 2026 NFL Draft.

The players

Ben Johnson

The head coach of the Chicago Bears, who is entering his second season with the team.

Ozzy Trapilo

The Bears' rookie left tackle who suffered a season-ending injury in the playoffs.

Braxton Jones

A Bears offensive tackle who could compete for the left tackle job.

Jedrick Wills Jr.

A Bears offensive tackle who could compete for the left tackle job.

Theo Benedet

A Bears offensive tackle who could compete for the left tackle job.

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What they’re saying

“There's a lot of uncertainty there.”

— Ben Johnson, Head Coach, Chicago Bears

“We can stay true to our board and not force any pick.”

— Ben Johnson, Head Coach, Chicago Bears

“We don't know. We're going to have an opportunity right now for a lot of competition.”

— Ben Johnson, Head Coach, Chicago Bears

“I have high expectations for him because I've been with him before and I know what he's capable of.”

— Ben Johnson, Head Coach, Chicago Bears

What’s next

The Bears will hold OTAs and training camp competitions to determine their starting left tackle for the 2026 season.

The takeaway

The Bears' left tackle position is a key area of focus this offseason as they look to replace the injured Ozzy Trapilo. The team is exploring various options, including the draft, free agency, and an open competition, demonstrating their commitment to finding the best solution to protect quarterback Caleb Williams and bolster the offensive line.