The Chicago Bears are making big moves this offseason, strengthening their offensive line as they prepare for a pivotal 2025 campaign.
With around $67 million in cap space and multiple premium draft picks – including the 10th overall selection – Chicago is wasting no time building protection for its future quarterback, Caleb Williams.
According to reports, the Bears are set to acquire All-Pro guard Joe Thuney from the Kansas City Chiefs.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter confirmed the trade details, reporting that Chicago is sending a 2026 fourth-round pick to Kansas City in exchange for the veteran lineman.
This deal comes just a day after the Bears added guard Jonah Jackson from the Los Angeles Rams in exchange for a 2025 sixth-round pick, signaling Chicago’s clear intent to reinforce its offensive front.
Thuney, 32, carries a $16 million cap hit for the 2025 season, the final year of a five-year, $80 million contract he signed with the Chiefs in 2021.
This gives the Bears flexibility – they can either extend him next offseason or let him walk in free agency after a one-year rental.
Originally drafted in the third round of the 2016 NFL Draft by the New England Patriots, Thuney has built an impressive résumé.
He is a four-time Super Bowl champion, winning two titles in New England and two more in Kansas City. Now, he’ll look to bring that championship pedigree to Chicago.
The Bears’ offensive line revamp might not stop with Thuney and Jackson. A recent ESPN mock draft by Jordan Reid projects Chicago selecting Missouri tackle Armand Membou with the 10th overall pick.
“Primarily playing right tackle during his career, he made a massive leap as a junior, giving up only one sack and shutting down many of the SEC’s best pass rushers,” Reid wrote.
With Darnell Wright already locked in at right tackle, Membou could compete at left tackle or even move inside.
“The Bears are already set at right tackle with Darnell Wright, so Membou could provide immediate competition to Braxton Jones at left tackle or start at either guard spot,” Reid concluded.
If Chicago secures a tackle in the first round and adds a center via free agency, its offensive line could quickly become one of the team’s biggest strengths.
With a revamped front five, the Bears are ensuring Caleb Williams will have the protection needed to take the next step following an up-and-down rookie season.
One thing is for sure: Thuney will bring toughness and a winning attitude to Chicago. And by all accounts, the Bears will continue to be aggressive this offseason.
What are your thoughts on Chicago’s approach? … Do you think they could be on the path to legitimate sustained success??
