By Dianna Russini, Nate Taylor, Kevin Fishbain, and Adam Jahns
The Kansas City Chiefs have traded All-Pro offensive lineman Joe Thuney to the Chicago Bears in exchange for a fourth-round pick in 2026, according to league sources.
Thuney, who is 32 years old, has had a remarkable career. He has been named a first-team All-Pro in each of the last two seasons and has started 146 out of 148 games since he began his NFL journey with the New England Patriots in 2016. Although he primarily played left guard with the Chiefs, he transitioned to tackle during the last season and contributed to their Super Bowl LIX run. Thuney is a four-time Super Bowl champion, with titles from both the Patriots and the Chiefs.
This trade follows the Chiefs’ decision to franchise-tag guard Trey Smith, who is 25 years old. Smith is also an essential part of the team’s offensive strategy moving forward.
The Bears are clearly prioritizing the protection of quarterback Caleb Williams. They recently traded for guard Jonah Jackson from the Rams, and adding Thuney strengthens their offensive line even more.
Bears general manager Ryan Poles is taking a bold approach this offseason. Rather than waiting for free agents, he has actively pursued top players like Thuney and Jackson. This strategy is part of his plan to improve the team’s offensive line dramatically. It’s been a while since the Bears have had a Pro Bowl offensive lineman—since 2018—so these moves are crucial.
Thuney brings valuable experience and leadership, and he could reshape the Bears’ offensive line culture. Jackson, looking to rebound from a tough season with the Rams, adds toughness to the lineup. Together, they enhance the offensive protection for Williams as he enters his second year.
On the Chiefs’ side, trading Thuney was part of a strategy to refresh and manage the age and costs of their offensive line. Thuney was the oldest player in that position group. With this trade, the Chiefs cleared $16 million in salary cap space. They plan to use some of that space to secure Smith with a long-term extension, as he is expected to command a hefty annual salary in the coming free agency period.
As for who will take over Thuney’s position, the Chiefs are likely to give Kingsley Suamataia a shot at left guard. Suamataia, a second-round pick in 2024, had a rocky start as a rookie but may get a chance to prove himself in this new role. With Thuney’s departure, the onus will be on Suamataia and the rest of the line to maintain the Chiefs’ strong performance as they aim for continued success.
(Photo: Mark J. Rebilas / Imagn Images)
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Chicago Bears, Kansas City Chiefs, NFL
