The Chicago Bears have secured a key piece of their offensive line. Today, the team finalized a two-year contract extension with All-Pro guard Joe Thuney worth $35 million. The deal includes $33.5 million in guaranteed money at signing. This extension ensures Thuney will remain with the Bears through the 2027 season. It provides stability for rookie quarterback Caleb Williams.
Thuney’s extension means he will earn $51 million over the next three years. The four-time All-Pro guard joined Chicago via trade from the Kansas City Chiefs in March. He had just one year left on his previous contract. Bears General Manager Ryan Poles made extending Thuney a priority this offseason.
“I’m thankful to be here and I’m excited to play,” Thuney said after signing. “I’ll let the business aspects take care of themselves. I’m looking forward to hitting the field with the guys during OTAs.”
Poles knows Thuney well from their time together in Kansas City. “It feels like yesterday when we were signing him in Kansas City,” Poles stated in March. “He brings maturity and leadership to our roster.”
The 32-year-old guard has shown no signs of slowing down. Last season, Thuney played left tackle for the Chiefs due to injuries. His versatility helped Kansas City reach the Super Bowl. With the Bears, he will return to his natural position at left guard.
This extension completes an important piece of Chicago’s offensive line puzzle. The Bears now have four of their five starting offensive linemen under contract for multiple years. Center Coleman Shelton, guard Jonah Jackson, and right tackle Darnell Wright join Thuney in this group. They will protect Williams throughout his rookie contract.
The move represents Chicago’s commitment to building around their franchise quarterback. Williams, selected first overall in the 2025 NFL Draft, stands to benefit most from this stability. NFL analysts praise the Bears’ approach to protecting their young quarterback.
Bears fans have responded positively on social media. Many view this as another smart move by Poles. He has also extended cornerback Kyler Gordon and linebacker TJ Edwards this offseason.
Securing Joe Thuney was one of the most critical internal decisions for Ryan Poles,” noted one NFL analyst. “Finalizing Thuney’s extension brings a sense of relief to the organization.”
Thuney’s contract is especially significant given the current NFL offensive line market. Top guards now command salaries exceeding $15 million per year. Thuney’s $17.5 million annual average places him among the highest-paid interior linemen in the league. The investment reflects his consistent performance and durability.
The guard’s resume includes two Super Bowl victories with Kansas City. He contributed significantly to Patrick Mahomes’ success with the Chiefs. Chicago hopes he’ll have a similar impact for Williams. His experience in championship environments adds valuable perspective to a young Bears team.
The timing of this extension coincides with the NFL’s spring league meetings. These meetings are currently underway in Minneapolis. Team owners are discussing several key issues including potential rule changes. The Bears’ front office finalized Thuney’s deal amid these important league discussions.
The Bears will continue their offseason program with Organized Team Activities starting next week. The team still needs to make decisions about several key players. Safeties Jaquan Brisker and Kevin Byard will enter free agency in 2026. Left tackle Braxton Jones also needs a contract decision soon. For now, securing Thuney gives the Bears one less worry as they build toward contention in the NFC North.
