Chicago Bears Left Tackle Question Intensifies After Coach’s Comments
Bears offensive line coach Dan Roushar addressed Chicago’s left tackle concerns on Terron Armstead’s podcast as the 2026 NFL Draft approaches.
The Chicago Bears aren’t hiding from their biggest offseason question.
Appearing on Terron Armstead’s podcast, Bears offensive line coach Dan Roushar delivered a candid assessment of Chicago’s left tackle situation entering the 2026 NFL offseason.
“I know what the left tackle position looks like in this league. You are the standard,” Roushar told Armstead. “That’s a rare player that comes along. But somebody has to play that position… It’s a faceless, nameless guy right now… Is that player in the building? I think there’s guys that have traits. But not consistent enough.”
That sounds like a pretty clear admission that the Bears don't think they have an answer at left tackle.
Why the Bears’ Left Tackle Job Is Still Unsettled
By referencing Armstead directly, Roushar underscored how elite the position has to be. Left tackle isn’t just a starting job. It’s a franchise stabilizer, especially with Caleb Williams entering a critical stretch of his rookie contract window.
Chicago already believes it has that stability on the right side with Darnell Wright. Roushar even referenced Wright’s development arc, noting that his level of play required time, draft capital, and patience.
The implication? Chicago doesn’t currently view its left tackle situation the same way.
It appeared the Bears had that answer in place with 2025 second-round pick Ozzy Trapilo. However, he suffered a torn patellar injury late in the season. General manager Ryan Poles said at the NFL Combine that he doesn't expect Trapilo to be ready for the regular season.
Braxton Jones is set to become an unrestricted free agent, and Theo Benedet is more of a swing tackle than a starter.
How the Bears Could Address Left Tackle in 2026
Roushar didn’t rule anything out when it comes to adding a starting left tackle this year.
“You can address that in free agency. You can address that in the draft,” he said.
That matters as the Bears approach the 2026 NFL Draft cycle. Elite left tackles rarely hit the open market. When they do, the cost is massive. Drafting one, however, requires premium capital, which means Chicago may have to trade up. They currently hold the 25th pick in the first round.
Sure, a starting-quality left tackle could slide to them. But the surefire starters are usually top-15 picks.
Roushar didn't rule out the possibility that the Bears' answer could be in-house, too.
Why Left Tackle Could Be a Top Bears Priority in the 2026 NFL Draft
Left tackle could quickly rise to the top of Chicago’s 2026 NFL draft board.
Poles has consistently prioritized the trenches. Roushar’s public acknowledgment that consistency is lacking at left tackle suggests that the Bears know they have a lingering problem.
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Chicago doesn't need perfection at left tackle. But they need reliability. If they can get that, there's a chance this team will have the best offensive line in football next season.
Roushar made one thing clear: the Chicago Bears understand the standard. Whether that answer is already in the building, comes via 2026 free agency, or is found in the NFL Draft remains the defining question of this offseason.
