The Chicago Bears are in their final phase of OTAs (June 9-June 11) before taking a break ahead of training camp. The Bears have Ben Johnson running the ship, and he has brought in countless players to change the vibe around the building.
There are many battles already happening on the football field, and starting left tackle Braxton Jones is someone who's on the chopping block.
Since getting selected in the fifth round of the 2022 NFL draft, Jones has started in 40 games for Chicago. While he's been a solid starter, Jones has missed time due to ankle and hamstring injuries.
Ozzy Trapilo May Have Put Braxton Jones on the Chopping Block in Chicago
He's also due for a new deal after 2025, and the Bears aren't hiding the fact that they could have his replacement in the wings. Chicago drafted OT Ozzy Trapilo in the second round of this past draft.
Even though he hasn't been around for a long time, Trapilo has already been getting some first-team reps in practice. Not only has he been seen with the starters, but Trapilo was impressive and reportedly "held his own."
The Boston College product made 36 starts during his collegiate career, making 24 at right tackle and 10 at left tackle. He's a natural mover and has great hand placement. Trapilo's body control is one of the skills that will immediately translate to the next level.
The fact that he quickly got first-team reps shows how he's already impressed the coaching staff. While that is great for Trapilo, it means Jones may have to look over his shoulder cause the rookie is eyeing his job.
Jones has been a sound starter when he takes the field. Last season, he had a 77.4 overall grade (20th among 140 graded tackles), 80.8 pass-blocking grade (17th among 140 graded tackles), and a 70.2 run-blocking grade (35th among 140 graded tackles).
Regardless of his play over the past three seasons, he will need to show the new coaching staff what he's capable of because it looks like Trapilo is ready to take his gig.