Bears Still Undecided at Left Tackle

Overview

• Head coach Ben Johnson said the left tackle spot remains "a hot spot" in a Tuesday press conference and that upcoming joint practices and Saturday's final preseason game will be decisive for a Week 1 plan.
• Braxton Jones has taken the most first‑team reps in camp and is the current front‑runner, but the team has not officially named a starter.
• Theo Benedet's strong relief snaps in the preseason forced the staff to remove Jedrick Wills and Kiran Amegadjie from left tackle contention and reshaped the depth chart.
• Ozzy Trapilo has returned to limited practice after rupturing his patellar tendon last season, but the Bears say it is unclear whether he will be cleared to play by Week 1.
• If Trapilo returns near full strength the team could have a surplus of capable tackles, which would create roster pressure that could lead to cuts, role changes or a trade and repeat last season's instability at the position.