The Chicago Bears are heading into a pivotal offseason with a laundry list of defensive concerns. With four safeties potentially leaving and a defensive line in need of serious reinforcement, the pressure is on.
Adding to the mix, Tremaine Edmund's future with the team is uncertain, leaving key starting spots up in the air and resources stretched thin. Yet, the unresolved issue at left tackle looms large, making recent comments from offensive line coach Dan Roushar all the more significant.
Ozzy Trapilo was pegged as the future at left tackle until a knee injury sidelined him, potentially for all of 2026. On Terron Armstead’s podcast, Roushar candidly shared his thoughts, stating that the team’s best option for left tackle might not be on the current roster. While players like Theo Benedet, Kiran Amegadjie, and Braxton Jones have shown promise, none have locked down the role for next season.
Roushar's remarks underscore the priority of finding a solid left tackle. With free agency offering limited solutions-Rasheed Walker and Cam Robinson being the only notable names, neither of whom are standout options-the draft becomes crucial. Head coach Ben Johnson might have to prioritize a left tackle in the 1st round, given the scarcity of quality options if they wait.
Historically, the draft's success rate for finding starting-caliber players drops significantly after the 1st round, with only a 40% hit rate by the 3rd round. However, Roushar has a knack for uncovering hidden gems, as evidenced by Terron Armstead’s own journey from a 3rd-round pick to an All-Pro. The Bears could lean on Roushar’s expertise to find talent outside the 1st round, but it’s a gamble.
As the draft approaches, the 1st round is expected to be defense-heavy, which might leave some quality offensive linemen available at pick 25. Prospects like Monroe Freeling from Georgia and Caleb Lomu from Utah fit the mold of what Roushar values-strong pass protection skills. The Bears' strategy will hinge on how the draft unfolds, particularly in the early selections.
Ultimately, what the Bears do in free agency will signal their draft intentions. If they don't re-sign Jones or land a notable free agent, expect left tackle to be a focal point come draft day. The Bears are at a crossroads, and their moves in the coming months will shape their trajectory for the season ahead.