The future of the Chicago Bears' offensive line is a hot topic, and one name that has everyone talking is Ozzy Trapilo. Will this rookie lineman secure his spot as the starting left tackle?
Ozzy Trapilo's journey began when he stepped up to the plate in Week 12, filling in for an injured Theo Benedet. His performance against the Pittsburgh Steelers was nothing short of heroic, and it seemed to earn him a second chance in Week 13 against the Philadelphia Eagles.
While his Week 13 grade from Pro Football Focus might not have matched his previous heroics, Trapilo's overall performance has caught the eye of Head Coach Ben Johnson. In a recent quote, Johnson highlighted Trapilo's potential, stating, "He's an ascending player, still developing, and with more reps, he'll only get better."
But here's where it gets controversial... The Bears have a decision to make about their left tackle situation in the offseason. Will they stick with Trapilo, or explore other options? It's a discussion for another day, but for now, Trapilo has a chance to prove his worth and secure his starting role.
"I'm not sure how long it will last," says Luis C. Medina, Senior Writer at Bleacher Nation. "But I'm excited to see if Trapilo can hold onto this gig. If he does, it simplifies the Bears' offseason plans and could be a huge boost for the team."
Trapilo is part of the Bears' impressive 2025 NFL Draft class, which has already produced several key contributors. Rookie tight end Colston Loveland has been on an upward trajectory since the bye week, while Luther Burden III, another second-round pick, is fighting for more playing time. And let's not forget the formidable backfield duo of Kyle Monangai and D'Andre Swift.
However, it's Trapilo's potential impact as a left tackle that could be the missing piece. Protecting the blindside of quarterback Caleb Williams is a daunting task, and Trapilo will face some of the league's best pass rushers in the coming weeks, including Micah Parsons, Myles Garrett, and Aidan Hutchinson.
"These guys are game-changers," Medina adds. "But if the Bears' coaching staff, including Ben Johnson and Offensive Line Coach Dan Roushar, believe in Trapilo, then he has what it takes to hold his own."
So, will Ozzy Trapilo keep his job? Only time will tell, but one thing's for sure: the Bears' offensive line is about to get even more exciting.
What do you think? Should the Bears stick with Trapilo, or explore other options? Let us know in the comments!
