During the Chicago Bears‘ 31-27 playoff victory over the Green Bay Packers, left tackle Ozzy Trapilo tore his patellar tendon, an injury expected to sideline him for most of the 2026 season. In response, the Bears shifted veteran Joe Thuney from his usual left guard spot to left tackle for the postseason. However, with Trapilo’s long-term absence, the team’s plan for left tackle next year has become a key question.
Plans for Left Tackle Position Moving Forward
The Bears appear to prefer keeping Joe Thuney, who is 33 years old, at left guard rather than a permanent switch to left tackle. NFL analyst Adam Hoge reported that general manager Ryan Poles is firm on Thuney remaining at guard, although the Bears want to keep him as a possible left tackle option in emergencies. Given Trapilo’s projected recovery timeline, Chicago is likely to pursue outside options to fill the left tackle role during the upcoming offseason.
Management Comments on Thuney and Trapilo
Joe Thuney won’t be moving to left tackle. That’s only something they want to do in a pinch. Poles does not believe Ozzy Trapilo’s injury is career-threatening, but he will miss most of next season.
– Adam Hoge, NFL Analyst
Trapilo, a 2025 second-round draft pick, is expected to reclaim the starting left tackle spot once he recovers. Poles’ comments suggest the Bears may explore free agency or trades rather than the draft to address their left tackle needs while waiting for Trapilo’s return.
Thuney’s Strengths and Future Potential
Joe Thuney, who recently received the NFL’s inaugural Protector of the Year Award, will return to left guard for 2026. Although he has filled in at left tackle during his four years with the Kansas City Chiefs and the Bears’ postseason run, his skill set is best suited for guard. The Bears value his versatility but see the guard position as where he can contribute most effectively moving forward.
Impact on the Bears’ Offensive Line Strategy
The Bears face significant challenges in stabilizing their offensive line after Trapilo’s injury disrupted their playoff rotation. Keeping Joe Thuney at left guard maintains some consistency, but the need to find a reliable left tackle will likely shape the team’s offseason priorities. The offensive line’s composition for the 2026 campaign will be crucial to Chicago’s performance and protecting their quarterbacks.
#Bears offensive line notes:
Ryan Poles wants to keep Darnell Wright and Jonah Jackson together on the right side.
Joe Thuney won’t be moving to left tackle. That’s only something they want to do in a pinch.
Poles does not believe Ozzy Trapilo’s injury is career-threatening,…
— Adam Hoge (@AdamHoge) February 24, 2026
