The Chicago Bears extended their win streak to three on Monday following their bye week to keep their momentum. Unfortunately, not every Bears player can be considered a winner after Week 6. Rookie offensive lineman Ozzy Trapilo entered the bye week on a high note following his first offensive snaps in Week 4, but he may find it harder to find playing time after the win over the Washington Commanders.
Trapilo had made an impact against the Las Vegas Raiders, specifically against pass-rushing star Maxx Crosby, which earned praise from head coach Ben Johnson and his staff, suggesting that a bigger role may be coming. Much to his dismay, Trapilo got zero offensive snaps on Monday, with Theo Benedet and Darnell Wright playing every down at left and right tackle, respectively.
Bears Offensive Line Shines Without Ozzy Trapilo in Week 6 Win
What complicates matters for Trapilo is the fact that this was the best the Bears' offensive line looked all season. Per Pro Football Focus, the team's pass block grade of 79.9 and run block grade of 71.1 were the highest of the season for Chicago. Benedet, who got his second consecutive start at left tackle, played a much better game, getting a 60.9 pass block grade and a 69.0 run block grade, and receiving a ton of praise on social media from Bears fans.
After this performance, it's hard to imagine the Bears making any changes to their O-line any time soon. The next four games for the Bears will be against the New Orleans Saints, Baltimore Ravens, Cincinnati Bengals, and New York Giants, giving them an excellent opportunity to keep their momentum alive and make a run for the top of the NFC North after the halfway mark of the season.
The Bears' current offensive line situation doesn't bode well for Trapilo and Braxton Jones. The rookie out of Boston College has become somewhat of a fan favorite, with many hoping that he would take over as a starter to alleviate the team's offensive line concerns. Now that those concerns have been eased until further notice, calls for Trapilo to get more playing time will likely subside.
The NFL season is grueling. Injuries will hit, and Trapilo, just like everyone else on the roster, will get his chance, just like he did against the Raiders. It's important that the 23-year-old offensive lineman stays ready and pounces on the opportunity when it strikes. For now, he has to watch Benedet and Wright protect franchise quarterback Caleb Williams.