Ben Johnson confirmed what Bears fans suspected all along about Theo Benedet

Chicago Bears fans were probably more excited than they would publicly admit to see Theo Benedet make his first start at left tackle against the Washington Commanders.

This was the second straight game he started, as he made his first career NFL start at right tackle against the Las Vegas Raiders, with Darnell Wright dealing with his elbow injury. After the previous starting left tackle, Braxton Jones, struggled in the game, Benedet moved to left tackle, and rookie second-round pick Ozzy Trapilo at right tackle to finish the game and help them win.

Benedet's play at left tackle convinced Bears head coach Ben Johnson to give him the nod against Washington, and it paid off. Chicago had their best rushing performance of the season with 145 yards, with Benedet playing a significant role in that as the Bears took down the Commanders 25-24.

In the aftermath of the game and reviewing the tape, how did he do?

Johnson gets honest about his evaluation of Benedet

While talking with the media, Johnson was asked about his thoughts on how Benedet played this season. Johnson had nothing but high compliments for Benedet.

"I thought he has done a really solid job for us. I think the biggest compliment I could probably give him last week was I didn't feel him out there. As a play caller, that is what you're normally doing is, 'Hey, why is a play breaking down?' And if it's a particular person, then you're looking to help him out somehow, someway. I never felt that last week with him. So, I think the confidence is growing, I think his confidence is growing with his ability to perform in this league, and I think our confidence with him continues to grow as well."

Pro Football Focus released their grades for the game, and while Benedet showed some promise, he did finish with a 62 overall grade. The concern with Benedet is just being more consistent in pass protection, but he played a critical role in helping running back D'Andre Swift pop off some big runs.

There are some things he needs to work on, and he will get better with him, but Benedet looks like a guy who could command the left tackle position for a long time if he wants it.