Imagine your team’s star quarterback, the future of your franchise, constantly under siege. That’s the nightmare scenario the Chicago Bears face after losing their rookie left tackle to a devastating injury. Caleb Williams’ blindside is exposed, and the clock is ticking to find his protector. With the 2026 NFL Draft looming, the pressure is on to find the right man for the job. But here’s where it gets tricky: the perfect candidate might not even be available when the Bears are on the clock at pick No. 25. So, who are the contenders to save Caleb’s skin? Let’s dive into the top five left tackle prospects and separate the dreamers from the doers.
The Interior is Solid, But the Blindside is a Gaping Hole
Celebrating playoff wins and victories over the Packers feels hollow when your franchise quarterback’s safety is in jeopardy. The loss of Ozzy Trapilo to a torn patellar tendon wasn’t just a setback—it was a wake-up call. This isn’t an injury you bounce back from quickly; it’s a multi-year recovery. Meanwhile, the rest of the offensive line is a fortress, with Thuney, Dalman, Jackson, and Darnell Wright forming an impenetrable wall on the right side. But the left tackle spot? It’s a glaring vacancy that demands immediate attention.
The Bears need a player who can slide his feet with agility, deliver bone-crushing punches to defensive ends, and ensure Caleb Williams isn’t the star of the wrong kind of highlight reel. With the 25th pick, there’s no room for error. This player must be ready to step in and perform from Day One.
And this is the part most people miss: the left tackle isn’t just another position—it’s the most critical spot on the offensive line. It’s the difference between a Super Bowl run and a season spent watching your quarterback get sacked into oblivion.
Before we get into the prospects, don’t forget to subscribe to the Untold Chicago YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/@untoldchicagostories) for exclusive stories from Chicago sports legends. Now, let’s break down the top left tackle prospects for the Bears in 2026, no fluff included.
1. Francis Mauigoa (Miami) – The Unattainable Dream
The Stats: 6’6″ | 335 lbs | Junior
The Profile: A bulldozer with a chip on his shoulder.
Francis Mauigoa is a force of nature. As Miami’s right tackle, he didn’t allow a single sack in the College Football Playoffs. At 335 pounds, he’s a human roadblock with heavy hands and an anchor-like presence. His blocks aren’t just effective—they’re personal.
Why He’s a Fit: Mauigoa sets the tone for physicality, something Ryan Poles values in his offensive line. While he played right tackle, his footwork suggests he could transition to the left side. Worst-case scenario? He’s an All-Pro guard.
The Catch: He’s a Top-15 lock and unlikely to fall to 25. Some scouts question his arm length, suggesting he’s better suited for guard. But if he’s available, he’s worth the gamble.
The Verdict: A pipe dream. If he starts sliding due to guard concerns, the Bears should consider trading up. But don’t hold your breath.
2. Spencer Fano (Utah) – The Graceful Giant
The Stats: 6’6″ | 308 lbs | Junior
The Profile: A ballet dancer in a lineman’s body.
Spencer Fano defies expectations. At 308 pounds, he moves with the agility of a tight end. His elite footwork makes him the consensus second-best tackle in the draft, effortlessly mirroring speed rushers. In a zone-blocking scheme, he’s the ideal fit.
Why He’s a Fit: Fano is the most athletic tackle in the class, excelling in reach blocks, pulls, and getting to the second level. His versatility aligns perfectly with the Bears’ offensive philosophy.
The Catch: He’s lean and can struggle against power rushers. A year of Chicago deep-dish pizza and intense strength training could transform him. Like Mauigoa, he’s likely gone by pick 15.
The Verdict: Out of reach. His athleticism ensures he won’t fall to 25.
3. Caleb Lomu (Utah) – The Perfect Puzzle Piece
The Stats: 6’6″ | 308 lbs | Redshirt Sophomore
The Profile: The technician who makes it look effortless.
Caleb Lomu is the answer. After taking over Spencer Fano’s left tackle spot at Utah, he didn’t allow a single sack all season. He’s the most natural left tackle in the draft, with a skill set tailored for the NFL.
Why He’s a Fit: Lomu is a perfect match for Ben Johnson’s offense. His elite kick-slide handles speed rushers, his balance counters power, and his zone-blocking skills open running lanes. He’s young, athletic, and projected to be available at 25.
The Catch: He’s not a dominant run blocker yet, relying more on positioning than raw power. He needs to add strength to become a complete player.
The Verdict: The no-brainer pick. If he’s available at 25, Ryan Poles should sprint to the podium. He’s the ideal fit to protect Caleb Williams.
4. Kadyn Proctor (Alabama) – The High-Risk, High-Reward Gamble
The Stats: 6’7″ | 369 lbs | Junior
The Profile: A mountain in shoulder pads.
Kadyn Proctor is a physical anomaly. At 6’7″ and 369 pounds, he’s the largest player in the draft. When he engages, defenders are neutralized. His power and length are unmatched.
Why He’s a Fit: His size alone makes him a nightmare for defenders. If he refines his technique, he could be the next Trent Williams, anchoring against bull rushes with sheer mass.
The Catch: Proctor is raw. He plays too upright, dips his head, and struggles against speed rushers. He’s a boom-or-bust prospect, and Caleb Williams’ health can’t afford busts.
The Verdict: A risky but intriguing option. If Lomu is off the board, Proctor is worth considering, but expect growing pains.
5. Caleb Tiernan (Northwestern) – The Reliable Backup Plan
The Stats: 6’7″ | 325 lbs | Senior
The Profile: The dependable veteran who gets the job done.
Caleb Tiernan is the definition of consistency. A longtime starter at Northwestern, he’s versatile, tough, and experienced. While he lacks elite athleticism, he’s reliable.
Why He’s a Fit: Tiernan provides depth and competition. If the Bears miss out on top tackles in Round 1, he’s a solid Day 2 target to challenge for a starting spot.
The Catch: He’s an average athlete, likely better suited for guard. He’s not a franchise left tackle.
The Verdict: A Round 3 target. A good depth addition, but starting him Week 1 would be a gamble.
The Final Playbook
The Bears need a starter, and fast. Ozzy Trapilo’s absence leaves a void that must be filled.
- The Priority: Caleb Lomu. He’s the best scheme fit and most likely to be available at 25. He instantly stabilizes the line.
- The Backup Plan: Kadyn Proctor. If you’re betting on potential, he’s the high-risk, high-reward option.
- The Fallback: If top tackles are gone, target the best defender available and grab Tiernan or another developmental player on Day 2. Then, hope for a veteran cut to fill the gap.
Ryan Poles has built a contender. Now, he needs to protect his quarterback. Caleb Lomu is the answer.
But here’s the controversial part: What if Lomu isn’t available, and the Bears are forced to choose between a raw talent like Proctor and a safer but less impactful player like Tiernan? Is it worth risking Caleb Williams’ health on a project, or should they play it safe and hope for the best? Let us know in the comments—this debate is far from over.
Bear Down.
