Knee injuries are never good in the NFL, but they were really bad 20-25 years ago. Torn ACLs and torn patella tendons could not just end a season, but even a career. That is the fear surrounding Ozzy Trapilo. The Chicago Bears’ rookie left tackle was really coming into his own down the stretch of this season. So when the news dropped that he’d torn his patella, it was met with crushing shock and dread. Not only would he face 6-12 months of recovery, but there was a strong possibility in most people’s minds that his career would never be the same.
The careers of some notable names were all but ruined by patella issues. Cadillac Williams, Victor Cruz, Jerod Mayo, and LeCharles Bentley were some of them. Those stories have painted a gloomy picture of what the injury can do. However, recent history has been different. Tight end Jimmy Graham tore his in late 2015. Not only did he return to play the full season in 2016, but he also had over 900 yards. Nakobe Dean tore his in the wild card round last season. He missed the first seven games of 2025, but still had 55 tackles and four sacks. Yet there is no better example for Trapilo than Josh Simmons.
Ozzy Trapilo can follow the Simmons path.
The 1st round pick of the Kansas City Chiefs suffered his patella injury in October of 2024. He recovered enough to become the team’s opening day starting left tackle and played really well for the first five weeks. Then, family issues and injuries to other body parts shortened his season. Still, it was apparent he’d regained the range of mobility he’d been touted for in college. There is no reason to think Trapilo can’t do the same. He is only 24 years old. If the surgery goes well and he attacks the rehab process, he could be back sooner than people think.
Until then, the Bears must make plans for life without him. It is a safe assumption that they will look to retain Theo Benedet. He has done an admirable job as a spot starter for the offense this season. Don’t be surprised if they seek some veteran help. Much of this depends on the prognosis of Ozzy Trapilo. If the injury is typical, they will likely avoid any big moves. If it’s particularly severe, they may go back to the draft for help. Smart money says they will be willing to wait it out.
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