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Bears Camp Opens: Key Battles for Starting Roles
29 Jul
Summary
- Training camp has begun, with multiple starting jobs open for the Bears.
- Braxton Jones and Jedrick Wills Jr. vie for the left tackle position.
- Rookie Logan Jones is expected to win the starting center job.
The Chicago Bears have commenced their training camp, with players reporting and practices set to begin. This signals the start of preparations for the 2026 season, as the team looks to build on recent success. Several starting positions are open on the roster, leading to significant competition among players vying for these roles.
The left tackle position is a major focus, as Ozzy Trapilo will miss most of the 2026 season due to injury. Braxton Jones, re-signed in March, and free agency acquisition Jedrick Wills Jr. are the primary contenders. Jones offers familiarity with the offense, while Wills Jr. is a former first-round pick.
At center, the Bears traded for Garrett Bradbury, but rookie Logan Jones, a top draft pick, is expected to win the starting job. He was the first center selected in the 2026 NFL draft.
Another closely watched battle is for the CB2 spot opposite Jaylon Johnson. Tyrique Stevenson is the current frontrunner due to seniority, but Terrell Smith, Cam Lewis, and rookie Malik Muhammad are also in contention. The situation is further complicated by Kyler Gordon's placement on the PUP list, potentially requiring reshuffling of the cornerback unit.
