Key Storylines
The atmosphere at Halas Hall shifted dramatically this week following the stunning activation of second-year offensive tackle Ozzy Trapilo from the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list. Trapilo, who suffered a ruptured patellar tendon during the 2025 postseason victory over the Green Bay Packers, was initially projected to miss most, if not all, of the 2026 season. His return just seven months after surgery represents a medical marvel for the Chicago Bears, who had already invested in veteran depth to compensate for his absence.
Head coach Ben Johnson now finds himself navigating a complex left tackle rotation. Before Trapilo’s activation, the Bears had solidified Braxton Jones as the presumptive starter on a one-year, $5 million deal, with veteran Jedrick Wills Jr. and Theo Benedet serving as immediate backups. However, Trapilo’s return complicates the hierarchy. In a pivotal press conference, Johnson emphasized the need for a ramp-up period, noting that while the physical recovery is complete, the focus now shifts to rebuilding the confidence required to protect the blind side of the franchise cornerstone.
Player Spotlight
Ozzy Trapilo emerged as a vital piece of the Bears' future during his 2025 campaign. Selected with the 56th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft out of Boston College, the 6-foot-8, 312-pound tackle eventually took over the starting left tackle duties in Week 12. According to Pro Football Focus, Trapilo allowed just 13 pressures during that final stretch of the season, earning a 77.7 pass-blocking grade. That level of reliability proved instrumental in allowing Caleb Williams to operate from a clean pocket on 64.8% of his dropbacks during the team's late-season surge.
The stakes for this competition could not be higher given the record-breaking trajectory of Caleb Williams. In 2025, Williams set a Bears franchise single-season record with 3,942 passing yards and 27 touchdowns, leading Chicago to an NFC North title and 12 total victories. Ensuring Williams remains upright is the primary objective for Ben Johnson, who knows that any regression in pass protection could derail a season where Williams is already being viewed as a top-10 quarterback in league circles.
Looking Ahead
As the Bears prepare for their preseason matchup against the Cincinnati Bengals, the coaching staff will be watching the practice reps closely. While Braxton Jones has demonstrated consistency and growth—earning trust from Johnson for his execution—Trapilo’s high ceiling remains the ultimate prize for the offensive line. General Manager Ryan Poles and the medical staff have established a plan to integrate Trapilo into team drills gradually, ensuring he is ready for full-contact readiness before the regular-season opener.
For the fans, the return of #75 provides a major emotional boost. Trapilo was a driving force behind the team's physical identity last year, and his early return signals a resilient culture under Johnson’s leadership. Whether the Bears opt for the experience of Jones or the immense potential of a healthy Trapilo, the competition at left tackle will be the defining narrative of the remaining training camp sessions as Chicago prepares to defend its division crown.
