Not every highlight shows up in the box score. Sometimes, the moments that matter most happen after the game, and that was the case with Bears rookie left tackle Ozzy Trapilo and Browns star Myles Garrett on Sunday.
Trapilo spent the afternoon lining up against arguably the best edge rusher in football. Garrett is a former Defensive Player of the Year, a perennial All-Pro, and a nightmare matchup for even the most seasoned offensive tackles. For a rookie making his way through the early part of his NFL career, it was a true trial by fire.
Trapilo did give up two sacks in the game, which is to be expected when facing an elite talent like Garrett. But those snaps don’t tell the full story. The rookie continued to compete, adjust, and battle throughout the game, never backing down from the challenge. That effort didn’t go unnoticed.
After the game, Garrett made a point to show respect to Trapilo, a moment that spoke volumes. When one of the league’s most dominant defenders acknowledges a rookie lineman, it carries real weight. It’s a sign that Trapilo’s work, toughness, and approach stood out, even in a difficult matchup.
While Trapilo is still developing in pass protection, he has already shown dominance in the run game. The passing game will come with reps and experience.
Moments like this are encouraging for the Bears. They suggest Chicago may have something real in their rookie left tackle and that respect from the league’s best is already starting to follow.
