The Chicago Bears are still finding their way on offense. Things have improved since training camp began, but head coach Ben Johnson knows it’s a process. Part of that is solidifying the offensive line in front of Caleb Williams. Four of the five spots are locked down. Darnell Wright, Jonah Jackson, Drew Dalman, and Joe Thuney are all starters. Left tackle remains the only unknown. The coaching staff hasn’t made any declarations on that front. Until further notice, there has been an even competition between Braxton Jones, Ozzy Trapilo, and Kiran Amegadjie.
However, there have been rumblings, and things have shifted in the past week. Amegadjie has nursed a nagging injury, keeping him out of practice. His lack of polish was already making him face an uphill battle. That meant the battle had narrowed to Jones and Trapilo. Both have split reps with the starting offense. Some believe Jones has the edge due to his athleticism and experience. Others feel Trapilo’s size, power, and maturity make him the choice. Team insiders Adam Hoge and Adam Jahns revealed on CHGO which way they think it’s leaning.
It could be a new day in Chicago.
Hoge: Now in Week 3 of camp, I think I’m ready to declare the left tackle job Trapilo’s to lose. He has held his own at a position he hasn’t played in a few years, and you can already tell the coaches trust him.
It’s important to remember the criteria Johnson laid out: his starting left tackle will be the one who makes the fewest mental mistakes and requires the least amount of help in pass protection so he can keep the playbook wide open. So far, I think Trapilo has been that guy, but the biggest tests are still coming up – starting with Friday’s joint practice against the Dolphins.
Jahns: Well, the Bears drafted an offensive lineman in Trapilo who didn’t commit any penalties during his final year at Boston College and had only five over his college career. That’s something. On the field, Trapilo looks the part. I’m on the record saying that he looks like Kyle Long out there. Wearing No. 75 certainly helps. But he looks like he can be a potentially intimidating lineman, too.
This development for the Chicago Bears isn’t surprising.
A few factors play into it. For one, Jones is still recovering from the broken leg that ended his season last year. While he might be healthy enough to practice, he may not be 100%. Also, Jones still has the same weaknesses that have characterized his career. He’s athletic, but lacks true power or anchor. Lastly, Johnson didn’t draft him. Coaches usually prefer going with players they had a personal influence on acquiring. Trapilo fits that category while also having the giant frame and anchor to match it. His fundamentals are sound thanks to his extensive experience in college, playing for a Boston College coaching staff filled with NFL experience. He was well-prepared for this moment. Unless he somehow completely implodes over the next two weeks, that job is his for the taking
