Bears Set to Promote Theo Benedet as Starting Left Tackle
After the impressive victory of the Bears over the Raiders in Week 4, Chicago is anticipated to promote Theo Benedet to the position of starting left tackle, previously held by Braxton Jones. Jones, who has been struggling with his performance recently, isn’t predicted to continue in his left tackle role when the Bears challenge the Commanders post the two-week break. Benedet, who filled in as the left tackle halfway through the match with the Raiders, seems to be the most probable replacement.
Jones’ start to the season has been less than ideal, a fact that is likely influencing the decision. He has served as the Bears’ main starting left tackle since he was picked in the fifth round of the 2022 NFL Draft. After four games, he has been responsible for two sacks, 11 hurries, and 15 pressures, according to PFF’s evaluation.
Furthermore, Jones received a PFF offensive rating of 55.0, which indicates subpar performance within his role, based on their grading system. This adds further evidence to the argument for considering a change in the lineup.
Benedet, poised to celebrate his 24th birthday in October, was enlisted as an undrafted free agent from British Columbia in 2024. Before his transition to the NFL, Benedet had an impressive track record as a lineman at the Canadian college level.
Benedet was part of the Bears’ practice squad for the previous season and was promoted to the 53-man roster in reflection of a strong performance during the preseason and in training camp.
Making his mark in the NFL, Benedet was given his first major chance to participate in a game the past Sunday. He was assigned 40 snaps as the left tackle and an additional 28 as right tackle.
Interestingly, Benedet showed a significant contrast in his performance according to his role within the match. He encountered a couple of pressures while playing on the right after he switched sides, his performance improved, with no pressures allowed from that point on while in pass protection.
The results were clear, as the Bear’s offensive line reported a better performance with Benedet holding the left side against Las Vegas. This sparked a shift in the lineup, resulting in rookie Ozzy Trapilo, a second-round pick, stepping in as the new right tackle as a substitute for the sidelined Darnell Wright.
However, the question remains whether Wright will be deemed fit and available to participate in the Bears’ upcoming face-off with Washington. Another potential variable is if the rookie Trapilo will make his return to the field in two weeks’ time.