The Chicago Bears entered Sunday’s matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers facing yet another test at left tackle. Theo Benedet was ruled out with a quad injury, forcing the Bears to turn to second-round pick Ozzy Trapilo for his first career start on the blindside. Against a notorious Steelers’ front, it was a huge test for the youngster.
And he balled out in his first start.
A Dominant Showing by Ozzy Trapilo
Trapilo didn’t just hold his own; he delivered one of the Bears’ best offensive line performances of the season. According to Pro Football Focus, Trapilo allowed just one total pressure across 37 pass-blocking snaps, good for an 87.4 pass-block grade and an 80.9 true-pass-set grade. His pass protection effectiveness was charted at 88.4, and most importantly:
- 0 sacks allowed
- 0 quarterback hits allowed
For a player seeing his first significant NFL action, and doing so at a position he hasn’t consistently played, these numbers are nothing short of extraordinary.
Despite playing at right tackle for most of his college career and during the preseason, Trapilo’s smooth footwork, balance, and poise immediately stood out when watching his tape against the Steelers. He looked like a 10-year vet out there at a position that is relatively new for him.
For the position he was put in against those Steelers DEs, Ozzy Trapilo played amazing today at LT. #DaBears
— Ben Devine (@Chicago_NFL) November 23, 2025
Mindset Made for the Moment
After the game, Trapilo spoke about the preparation that led to his standout performance:
“Preparation was all the same,” he said. “You gotta prepare like you’re gonna be out there no matter what. Going in there, definitely nerves for my first start, but it does kinda go away after the first snap is done, so at that point you’re kinda just playing football. Something I’ve done for a long time.”
Staying level-headed and unfazed is exactly why the Bears invested a second-round pick in Trapilo, and it’s no surprise that he had the type of performance he had against Pittsburgh with a mindset like that.
Even as a backup to start his rookie season, Trapilo has emphasized being ready at a moment’s notice. On Sunday, that readiness showed.
A Potential Long-Term Starter?
The Bears have spent the season cycling through left tackles, searching for continuity and long-term answers. Braxton Jones doesn’t appear to be in the team’s future, and despite playing well, Benedet may have lost his starting spot.
It’s early, and one strong performance by Trapilo doesn’t cement a starting spot. However, his poise, athleticism, and adaptability project well as a potential long-term option at left tackle. If Trapilo continues to play at this level, the coaching staff may face a difficult decision when Benedet returns.
For now, though, one thing is undeniable:
Trapilo didn’t just fill in for Benedet; He excelled, and he might have changed the trajectory of Chicago’s offensive line moving forward.
Main Image: David Banks – Imagn Images
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