Editing Theo Benedet

Theo Benedet is one of the brightest young Canadian football players breaking into the NFL. After a decorated university career at the University of British Columbia (UBC), he signed with the Chicago Bears and is now pushing for a starting role. His story—going from Canadian university football to the NFL—is both rare and inspiring.

== Quick Facts: Theo Benedet ==
{| class="wikitable"
!Category
!Detail
|-
|'''Full Name'''
|Theo Benedet
|-
|'''Date of Birth'''
|October 12, 2001
|-
|'''Birthplace / Hometown'''
|Toronto, Ontario; raised in Vancouver, BC
|-
|'''Height / Weight'''
|6 ft 7 in (201 cm) / ~304 lb (137 kg)
|-
|'''College / University'''
|University of British Columbia (UBC Thunderbirds)
|-
|'''Position'''
|Offensive Tackle / Offensive Lineman
|-
|'''NFL Team'''
|Chicago Bears
|-
|'''Jersey Number'''
|79
|-
|'''Notable Awards'''
|2× J. P. Metras Trophy (2022, 2023) – first lineman to win consecutively
|-
|'''Professional Status'''
|Signed as an undrafted free agent in 2024; also drafted by BC Lions in the CFL
|-
|'''Nickname / Moniker'''
|“The Canadian Eagle”
|}

== Early Life & University Career ==
Theo Benedet was born in Toronto and grew up in Vancouver, British Columbia. He began playing football later than most athletes but quickly developed into a standout offensive lineman.

At UBC, Benedet became a starter as a freshman in 2019. His rise was interrupted by the canceled 2020 season, but he returned stronger than ever. In 2022, he won the '''J. P. Metras Trophy''' as the best down lineman in Canadian university football—a feat he repeated in 2023, becoming the first offensive lineman to win it twice consecutively.

Benedet also gained attention in the United States, being the only U Sports player selected to participate in the '''East-West Shrine Bowl''', an American college all-star showcase.

== Professional Journey & Current Status ==

* '''NFL Path:''' Despite going undrafted in 2024, Benedet signed with the Chicago Bears as a free agent.
* '''CFL Draft:''' He was also selected in the 2nd round of the 2024 CFL Draft by the BC Lions.
* '''Resilience:''' Waived initially, he rejoined the Bears’ practice squad, later earning a reserve/futures contract.
* '''Active Roster:''' In 2025, he made the Bears’ 53-man roster—an uncommon achievement for a Canadian lineman coming from U Sports.
* '''Next Step:''' He is now competing for playing time and may soon secure his first NFL start.

== Strengths & Challenges ==

=== Strengths ===

* '''Size & Frame:''' At 6′7″, 304 lb, he has the physical build of a prototypical NFL tackle.
* '''Run Blocking:''' Praised for his physicality and ability to create gaps in run schemes.
* '''Football IQ:''' Quick learner with improving footwork and understanding of pro systems.
* '''Resilience:''' Proved himself by overcoming undrafted status and roster cuts.

=== Challenges ===

* '''Pass Protection:''' Needs continued improvement against elite NFL edge rushers.
* '''Transition:''' Adapting from Canadian university football to the speed of the NFL is a significant adjustment.
* '''Experience:''' Competing against seasoned linemen requires rapid development.

== Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) ==
'''1. Who is Theo Benedet?'''

A Canadian offensive lineman currently playing for the Chicago Bears in the NFL.

'''2. What awards has he won?'''

He is a two-time '''J. P. Metras Trophy''' winner, recognizing the best lineman in Canadian university football.

'''3. How did he get into the NFL?'''

Signed by the Chicago Bears in 2024 as an undrafted free agent.

'''4. Was he also drafted in the CFL?'''

Yes, by the '''BC Lions''' in the second round of the 2024 CFL Draft.

'''5. Has he played in the NFL yet?'''

Yes, he has earned playing time and is on the Bears’ active roster.

'''6. What is his long-term potential?'''

If he continues improving, he could secure a starting tackle role and serve as a trailblazer for Canadian talent in the NFL.

== Why His Story Matters ==
Theo Benedet represents a breakthrough for Canadian football players aspiring to the NFL. His journey from UBC to Chicago demonstrates that talent, perseverance, and opportunity can bridge the gap between U Sports and the world’s top league. He stands as an example for young Canadian athletes dreaming of making it big in professional football.