The Chicago Bears' offensive line emerged as a cornerstone of consistency throughout the 2025 season. With key additions like Joe Thuney, Drew Dalman, and Jonah Jackson bolstering the interior and right tackle Darnell Wright holding down the fort, the line played a pivotal role in Caleb Williams' remarkable development in his sophomore year. Williams, who endured a league-high 68 sacks as a rookie, saw that number plummet to just 24 this past season, thanks in large part to the offensive line's performance.
However, one position remained a thorn in the Bears' side: left tackle.
A Persistent Puzzle at Left Tackle
The Bears shuffled through four different players at left tackle during both the regular season and playoffs, including Braxton Jones, Theo Benedet, Ozzy Trapilo, and Joe Thuney, who stepped in during the Divisional Round against the Los Angeles Rams.
According to Pro Football Focus, Benedet led the team with 524 snaps at left tackle during the regular season, while Trapilo, a second-round pick at No. 56 overall, logged 406 snaps protecting Williams' blindside.
Benedet, an undrafted standout from British Columbia, claimed the starting role in Week 6 against the Washington Commanders and held it until Week 11 against the Minnesota Vikings. A quadriceps injury sidelined him against the Pittsburgh Steelers, paving the way for Trapilo to start the final seven regular-season games and the Wild Card matchup against the Green Bay Packers.
Trapilo's promising run was cut short by a patellar tendon injury in the victory over the Packers, forcing Thuney to fill in at left tackle against the Rams.
While the left tackle spot saw its share of instability, Wright was a rock on the right side, playing at an All-Pro level. He allowed a mere 2.98% pressure rate during the 2025 regular season, ranking him second among right tackles, just behind the Rams' Warren McClendon Jr. at 2.94%.
Pressure Rates Among Right Tackles:
- Darnell Wright: 2.98%
- Warren McClendon Jr.: 2.94%
On the flip side, Benedet's pressure rate stood at 7.90%, placing him 28th in the league, while Trapilo managed a more respectable 5.32%, ranking ninth.
Trapilo's injury is a significant setback, likely sidelining him for much of the 2026 season. This leaves the Bears with a pressing need to reinforce their left tackle position, either through free agency or the draft, to secure this crucial part of the offensive line until Trapilo can make a potential return.
While the Bears have defensive concerns that demand attention, solidifying the left tackle position should be a top priority for general manager Ryan Poles as the team gears up for the 2026 season.