Chicago Bears coach Ben Johnson keeps the starting left tackle role earned, not given, as training camp unfolds around Braxton Jones, Ozzy Trapilo and Theo Benedet. The battle centers on protecting Caleb Williams while eyeing a Week 1 test against Minnesota, with Johnson stressing merit and avoiding early anointing.

Jones leads the incumbent group, but Trapilo and Benedet push for first-team reps, a dynamic that could reshape Williams’ fantasy upside if protection stabilizes. The outcome will shape both run and pass schemes in a pivotal opener.