The Chicago Bears have solidified their future on the offensive line by signing left guard Joe Thuney to a two-year, $35 million extension, emphasizing their commitment to enhancing the team’s capabilities. This agreement comes less than two months after the Bears traded a 2026 fourth-round draft pick to the Kansas City Chiefs to bring Thuney, a three-time Pro Bowl player, to Chicago.
Thuney’s new contract, which guarantees $33.5 million for the upcoming two seasons, reduces his salary cap number from $16 million to $8 million in 2025. This strategic adjustment allows the Bears to manage their finances while ensuring they retain a key asset in their offensive lineup.
General manager Ryan Poles has highlighted the importance of Thuney’s signing, which was on the team’s agenda when they acquired him in March. The Bears’ efforts to revamp their offensive line are further supported by recent moves, including the acquisition of right guard Jonah Jackson from the Los Angeles Rams and the signing of center Drew Dalman, who is now among the highest-paid centers in the league. The addition of Boston College tackle Ozzy Trapilo, selected in the second round of the draft, could mean that the Bears may have four new starters contributing to the offensive line.
Thuney, who has had a stellar career, being the first player in NFL history to start in the Super Bowl during his first three seasons, has shown consistent performance. He has started 146 of 148 regular-season games and earned first-team All-Pro honors in the last two years with the Chiefs. His vast experience and proven performance make him a valuable veteran presence in the Bears’ configuration, giving the team optimism for improvements on the field.
With Thuney anchoring the offensive line, the Bears are looking to bolster their performance after a challenging season where five different starters played at the guard positions in 2024, with Ryan Bates being the only remaining player from that roster. The upcoming season presents an opportunity for the Bears to integrate these strategic signings and develop a cohesive and competitive offensive front.