The Chicago Bears are making strategic moves to bolster their offensive line, addressing a key position with a fresh signing. With left tackle Ozzy Trapilo sidelined after a patellar tendon injury in the NFC Wild Card game against the Packers, the Bears have been proactive. They initially secured Braxton Jones on a one-year deal to cover the left tackle spot.
Now, they've added another layer of competition by bringing in offensive tackle Jedrick Wills Jr. on a one-year contract, as reported by ESPN's NFL insider Adam Schefter. Wills, a former 10th overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft, has a solid track record with the Browns, starting 57 of 58 games. However, he played only five games in 2024 due to a knee injury and took the 2025 season off to recover.
This signing sets the stage for an intriguing training camp battle between Wills and Jones for the starting left tackle position. With Trapilo expected to return in the latter half of the season, Wills and Jones have a significant opportunity to prove themselves and secure the role for a substantial part of the year.
Elsewhere on the line, the Bears are looking stable with Joe Thuney, Darnell Wright, and Jonah Jackson returning. However, they'll need to address the center position following the retirement of Dalman at just 27. This mix of veteran presence and new competition could shape a formidable front for the Bears as they gear up for the season.