Bears Bring in Top Tackle Prospect for Pre-Draft Visit

Chicago's meeting with Utah's Caleb Lomu hints at focus on shoring up left tackle position.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 11:11pm

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A cubist, geometric illustration depicting an offensive line in overlapping, fragmented planes of muted earth tones, conveying the complexity and importance of the left tackle position.The Bears' search for a long-term solution at left tackle could lead them to draft a player like Caleb Lomu, whose versatile skill set could solidify a critical position on the offensive line.Lawrence Today

The Chicago Bears hosted Utah left tackle Caleb Lomu for a Top-30 pre-draft visit, signaling the team's continued focus on solidifying the offensive line and protecting franchise quarterback Caleb Williams. Lomu is projected as a potential first or second-round pick and has emerged as one of the more intriguing tackle prospects in this year's class.

Why it matters

With uncertainty surrounding the long-term outlook at left tackle due to Ozzy Trapilo's injury, the Bears appear committed to ensuring stability at a critical position. Drafting a player like Lomu could provide a long-term solution to protect Williams' blindside.

The details

Lomu, a two-year starter at left tackle for Utah, earned First-Team All-Big 12 honors in 2025 and did not allow a sack that season. He is viewed as an above-average athlete with the movement skills and intelligence to project well to the NFL, though he could use added functional strength and more consistent aggression in the run game.

  • The Bears hosted Lomu for a Top-30 pre-draft visit on Friday, April 14.
  • Lomu is projected to be selected in either the first or second round of the 2026 NFL Draft.

The players

Caleb Lomu

A left tackle prospect from the University of Utah who is projected to be selected in the first or second round of the 2026 NFL Draft.

Ozzy Trapilo

The Chicago Bears' starting left tackle who suffered a significant patellar tendon tear late last season, creating uncertainty around the long-term outlook of the position.

Braxton Jones

The Chicago Bears' offensive tackle who was re-signed this offseason, providing depth and stability on the offensive line.

Caleb Williams

The Chicago Bears' franchise quarterback whose blindside protection is a top priority for the team this offseason.

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What they’re saying

“a player-team pairing I really like”

— Nate Tice

What’s next

The Bears will continue to evaluate their options at left tackle leading up to the 2026 NFL Draft, weighing the immediate needs of the position against the long-term stability a player like Lomu could provide.

The takeaway

The Bears' decision to host Caleb Lomu for a pre-draft visit highlights their commitment to shoring up the left tackle position and protecting their franchise quarterback, Caleb Williams. While the team has options on the current roster, Lomu's potential selection could provide a long-term solution at a critical spot on the offensive line.