Gabby Hajduk

Offensive lineman Ozzy Trapilo, the No. 56 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, talks with ChicagoBears.com about his guitar-playing skills, first impression of the Midwest, what snacks he plans to bring to the offensive line room and more.

First thing you think of when you hear Chicago?

"Windy City." I haven't spent much time here, but my short time has been incredible so far.

What are you looking forward to doing or seeing in Chicago?

I'm not sure. I'm excited to come play football. That's why I'm here. I look forward to that. And then maybe exploring the city.

Who were your sports idols growing up?

I wouldn't say I had too many sports role models growing up, which I guess is a little unique. As far as role models, the first person that comes to mind is my mom. She's always been that for me. She isn't the greatest football player, but she's great. She's a big reason why I'm here today.

Do you have a hidden talent?

I can play the guitar a little bit. It's nothing crazy, but I play as one of my hobbies when I have time. Time is of the essence recently. My free time has slimmed down, but it's something I enjoy doing.

Who taught you how to play the guitar?

My grandfather. He was really good. He passed away a couple years back, but growing up, he was unreal. He played for over 70 years. He was really good at it, so that was a fun way to spend time with him when I was first learning up until I got older. It was something I enjoyed doing, and I enjoyed spending time with him.

What's your go-to song to play?

Banana Pancakes.

You've lived out east your whole life what's your first impression of the Midwest?

The people are friendly. Being from Boston, you don't always get that. I think the people in Boston are great, but some of the outsiders that come in, especially when I was at BC (Boston College), didn't seem to think so. But I think the people here are super welcoming. Chicago is an incredible city, rich history and culture, so I'm excited.

Who are you most excited to team up with and compete against in practice?

I'm just excited to be here, so everyone.

Best advice you've ever received?

I think it's fairly obvious, but easy to not do during this process, slow down, take it in, it only happens once. It's been a bit of a whirlwind. You have Senior Bowl, Combine, Pro Day, visits, all these interviews mixed in between. It gets a little hectic, but a lot of people throughout the process have said, "hey, step back. You're only going through this process once. Enjoy it. As tedious as it might be, as repetitive as it might be, as tired as you might be, it's a once-in-a-lifetime thing, so slow down and take it all in."

You played basketball growing up as well. Who's your NBA comp?

Oh, I don't know. I can't shoot, so I would say Shaq, but he's way better in the post than me, so I don't want to hype myself up like that. But shooting wise, Shaq for sure.

What's something about playing offensive line that most fans don't know?

I feel like fans are pretty on top of it. Linemen don't get a lot of camera time, don't get a lot of glory. You hear about them most when they're screwing up. But that's the part I love most, is being the unsung heroes, if you will. I'm not a big camera guy, so it suits my personality very well.

What are you bringing (literally) to the O-line room?

Chocolate-covered cashews are probably one of my favorite snacks. We'll see. I'm gonna go in there and whatever they want is gonna happen, but if they're open to suggestions, maybe we can get some of that stuff in there.