The Chicago Bears have officially settled the blindside question heading into their season opener against the Carolina Panthers. Head coach Ben Johnson confirmed that veteran offensive tackle Braxton Jones will handle starting left tackle duties, providing a familiar and steady presence in front of franchise quarterback Caleb Williams as the offense looks to hit its stride early.
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Jones, a 2022 fifth-round draft pick out of Southern Utah, re-signed with Chicago on a one-year deal and fended off competition during training camp to secure the spot. While Jones provides essential continuity at left tackle, the blindside situation remains dynamic behind the scenes. Second-year offensive lineman Ozzy Trapilo, who established himself at the spot late last season before suffering a torn patellar tendon in the playoffs, was activated from the physically unable to perform list but still requires practice ramp-up time before being game ready.
Player Spotlight
For Braxton Jones, holding down the starting job presents both immediate responsibility and major stakes for his future. With the coaching staff committed to keeping Williams clean and operating within rhythm in the pocket, Jones' pass protection will be under intense scrutiny from day one. He is tasked with anchoring the edge against opposing pass rushers while managing the pressure of playing on a short-term contract.
Looking Ahead
Johnson and the Bears staff have maintained that tackle evaluation is an ongoing process as the unit moves toward full health. While Johnson acknowledged Trapilo's dedicated rehabilitation in the weight room, the team is deliberately avoiding a rushed timeline for the young tackle. Until Trapilo logs sufficient practice repetitions and proves fully recovered, the keys to Williams' blindside firmly belong to Jones, giving Chicago a trusted veteran to open the campaign.