The 2026 Bears offensive line looks different than last year, but is still carrying the team. Chicago has one of the league's best run games. Caleb Williams had plenty of time to throw against the Falcons, leading to an efficient day. Despite the different looks, it has been one of the team's most consistent pieces. Over the past few weeks, it has solidified. However, heading into Week Seven, it could get another shakeup.
The Solidified Starters
Three starting positions feel solidified this week. Joe Thuney is one of the league's best guards and a key leader. Darnell Wright has been playing at an elite level and holding down the right side of the line. These two are such major pieces to the Bears' offensive system. Thuney and Wright are elite in pass protection. Both are also critical in creating running lanes. They occasionally get penalties, but that is their only downside.
Now, Garrett Bradbury is technically locked in for now, but it is a shorter leash than the previous two. Rookie Logan Jones appeared for a few plays in Week Six. They may have just wanted to give Bradbury some rest given the team's short week. He has played solid, so there is no rush to bench him. Chicago could give Jones some experience, but unless he blows the team away, it will not be much.
The Question Marks
The remaining two positions are where things get more interesting. Left tackle has been a rotating door all year. Braxton Jones started the season but then suffered a right knee injury. Theo Benedet has looked solid in replacement. However, Ozzy Trapilo has made a miraculous recovery. Last season, he started the second half of the season before suffering a ruptured patellar tendon. Trapilo just made his first appearance this season in Week Six. Chicago could work him back slowly and continue rotating both options. The rotation will be critical to see who becomes the eventual starter.
Right guard may be the biggest storyline in Week Seven. Jonah Jackson went down with a hip flexor injury. It’s not expected to be long-term, but he is doubtful for this week. Luke Newman was the next man up and played 27 snaps on Sunday. It was a solid performance, but not the same elite level the Bears are used to. If not Newman, Jordan McFadden would be the next man up. The Bears rely on the right side of the offensive line to set up the run game, and that will be impacted in Week Seven.
Final Thoughts
The offensive line was the team's strength in 2025. Despite many changes, it has held up this season. However, the unit will be altered in Week Seven. It needs to step up to protect Williams and set up the run. Chicago's defense has improved, but it is hard to rely on. Their offense needs to step up and lead the team. The Bears' offensive line will need to rise to the challenge to keep the team on track.
