Intel: Why Ozzy Trapilo’s Injury Doesn’t Have People Inside Halas Hall Worried
Chicago Bears general manager Ryan Poles said at his end-of-season press conference that it was likely left tackle Ozzy Trapilo would go through a recovery process from his patellar knee injury that extends into the regular season later this year. Some took that as admission that the former 2nd round pick was in danger of missing 2026 entirely. What did that mean for his future? Missing that much time would put the Bears in a difficult spot, either having to find a bridge option to buy time until he returns or seek an outright replacement.
SM reached out to people close to the situation in hopes of determining how serious it is. Interestingly, there was resistance to the idea that Trapilo’s injury was devastating. It is felt within the building that, while his recovery would take some time, it shouldn’t affect his long-term career prospects. Expectations are that the team will make a move at left tackle, but it won’t be to seek a permanent replacement. They are willing to wait it out until he’s back to full strength.
The Ozzy Trapilo solution might be close to home.
There are several possibilities the Bears could explore for that bridge option. Veteran Cam Robinson is a free agent. He might provide some stability given his experience across multiple teams over time. There is Joseph Noteboom, who backed up Ronnie Stanley in Baltimore and has considerable starting experience as well, playing in Sean McVay’s offense with the Rams. Also, don’t forget D.J. Humphries. Though he’s been a backup the previous two years, he was a Pro Bowler not too long ago.
Truth be told, the Bears might not bother venturing into the unknown. There is a strong feeling inside the building that they could look to retain Braxton Jones. While that might not be the most popular idea for fans, the coaching staff loves him. When fully healthy, he’s proven to be a more than capable left tackle. Last season just fell apart because he was never 100%. That is no longer a concern, having spent most of the year recovering. He should be healthy and fresh by the summer.
Jones has an incentive to stay put.
For one, he already knows the offense, having spent the year practicing and playing in it. Ben Johnson is one of the best play callers in the NFL. If anybody is equipped to make him look good, it’s the Bears head coach. By accepting a one-year deal, Jones will get extensive playing time to start next season. If he performs closer to his top form from two years ago, it will improve his financial prospects for free agency in 2027. Right now, projections have him likely earning around $5 million per year from any team interested in his services. If that’s the case, going elsewhere makes little sense.
| Braxton Jones pressure % pre-injury | 6.83% |
| Braxton Jones pressure % post-injury | 11.02% |
Ozzy Trapilo was playing really well before his knee injury. He was gaining confidence as a pass protector and even making strides in the run game. His loss was felt significantly in the divisional round against Los Angeles, where the Bears were forced to move Joe Thuney to left tackle and plug the untested Jordan McFadden at left guard. They invested a 2nd round pick in him for a reason. They feel he has the potential for a bright future. He is still only 24 years old. Patellar injuries aren’t the career enders they once were.
The team is willing to wait this out.