None of the roster battles unfolding on the Chicago Bears’ roster in training camp is more important than the left tackle spot. The injury to Braxton Jones last season opened the door to a possible change. While the veteran managed to return from his broken leg in time for training camp, it didn’t save him from facing renewed competition. In addition to former 3rd round pick Kiran Amegadjie, he’d also have to contend with rookie 2nd round pick Ozzy Trapilo. Head coach Ben Johnson has left the job wide open to whomever can take it, rotating all three men with the starting offense each practice.
Now, the first preseason game is approaching. The clock is ticking. It feels like the Bears must make a decision within the next week to give their offensive line adequate time to gel. Johnson and his staff have been careful not to say anything that might indicate which way they’re leaning. The rotation will continue at least for the next couple of days. However, Patrick Norton of CHGO believes Johnson may already be tipping his hand. It comes from noticing his activities during practice.
Patrick Norton: Amegadjie couldn’t be sidelined at a worse time, either. The second-year left tackle wasn’t a favorite to win the job this summer anyway, but Doyle mentioned Saturday that the staff will eventually narrow its focus from the three-man competition down to two. As for Trapilo, I couldn’t help but notice how much the rookie tackle was with Johnson throughout practice. From a longer conversation during stretches to the head coach checking in with him during individual drills, it looks like a blossoming connection.
This would not be a surprise by Ben Johnson.
While the competition is very real, one fact can’t be denied: The head coach was not involved in the acquisitions of Jones or Amegadjie. They were acquired by a different coaching staff. Ben Johnson was personally involved in every step of the process of drafting Trapilo. He knows exactly what he can do and what he is capable of becoming. Besides, the common statement throughout all this is that Johnson would pick whoever the best pass protector is to man the spot. Trapilo was widely regarded for his protection skills at Boston College. If this has carried over into training camp, then the decision to simply roll with him becomes easier. Amegadjie’s recent leg injury appears to have narrowed the competition. It is now between the rookie and Jones. The upcoming joint practice with Miami could be the decisive moment for both.
