Context:

The Chicago Bears released their first unofficial depth chart for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season, revealing key position decisions and likely rotational plans. Braxton Jones is set as the starting left tackle, though the coaching staff emphasized ongoing evaluation and left room for Ozzy Trapilo to challenge him. Kentavius Street emerges as the starter at defensive tackle next to Grady Jarrett, despite limited prior starting experience, signaling a heavier-than-expected rotation along the line. Cam Lewis edges Malik Muhammad for the top slot-corner role, while Xavier Woods lands at safety beside Dillon Thieneman, reflecting a mix of experienced presence and new depth. The full depth chart also highlights Dayo Odeyingbo beating out Austin Booker at edge rusher and suggests evolving snap allocations as the season begins against Carolina.

Dive Deeper:

• Braxton Jones is officially the Week 1 left tackle starter, with head coach Ben Johnson cautioning that evaluations will continue and Ozzy Trapilo could still debut at that spot when ready; no timeline is provided for Trapilo's potential action. The decision aligns with Jones’s off-season status as the frontrunner and Trapilo’s current inactivity.

• Kentavius Street is listed as the starting defensive tackle beside Grady Jarrett after the Bears traded Gervon Dexter; defensive coordinator Dennis Allen praised Street for his production and explosiveness in camp. Street has 85 career games with 10 starts, marking a notable shift from prior backup status to a first-teams role for Week 1. Jordan van den Berg and Neville Gallimore remain as backups, with expectations of a heavy rotation rather than a fixed starter.

• Cam Lewis is named the top slot cornerback, overtaking Malik Muhammad who had been receiving most first-team reps earlier in the off-season; Muhammad is still viewed as a viable next-man-up option at slot CB2 if injuries or struggles arise. Lewis has 489 career slot snaps, which informs the decision amid earlier injury-related lineup changes.

• Xavier Woods is installed as the starting safety alongside Dillon Thieneman, following Woods’s signing in August as the secondary depth stabilized; his 10 NFL seasons and extensive start count add veteran reliability to the second level. The note underscores a broader defensive shake-up as the Bears balance experience with opportunity for young players.

• Dayo Odeyingbo earns the edge over Austin Booker at edge rusher opposite Montez Sweat, with an expected heavy rotation between the two as they pursue a reliable pass-rush presence. The arrangement suggests the Bears are prioritizing immediate contribution while still evaluating who emerges as the primary pass rusher over time.