Braxton Jones earns starting left tackle job for Bears season opener

The Chicago Bears confirmed Braxton Jones will serve as the starting left tackle for the season opener against the Carolina Panthers on September 13. Jones secured the position over competitors after a roster shuffle that included the departures of Kiran Amegadjie and Jedrick Wills Jr. The team currently holds Jones in the role until Ozzy Trapilo recovers from a patellar tendon injury sustained last season. While Trapilo lacks an injury designation and could return to the starting lineup by Week 4, the Bears will rely on Jones for the initial transition. The offensive line remains in flux following the retirement of starting center Drew Dalman and the subsequent acquisition of Garrett Bradbury. Chicago looks to stabilize its pass protection for quarterback Caleb Williams as the team prepares for the upcoming Week 1 road game.

• 8:44 PMYahoo Sports — Bears Make Long-Awaited Announcement Ahead of Panthers Opener