Chicago Bears’ general manager, Ryan Poles, wasted no time making changes to the team’s offensive line. Instead of waiting for free agency, he took action early, trading for guards Joe Thuney and Jonah Jackson. These trades will officially take effect on March 12, the start of the new league year. With Thuney coming from the Kansas City Chiefs and Jackson from the Los Angeles Rams, the Bears gain two experienced starters to help new coach Ben Johnson and rookie quarterback Caleb Williams.
This is an important move for a team that struggled in the middle of the offensive line last season. While Williams took some responsibility for his high sack count last year, a stronger interior line will allow him to feel more secure in the pocket and take deeper drops.
The Bears have a long history of challenges on the offensive line. They’ve struggled with injuries and have had a hard time finding players who stick around and perform well. Thuney has the potential to change that dynamic. His experience can bring much-needed leadership to an offensive group that faced difficulties last season.
The Bears are drawing parallels to 2018 when they made big moves by bringing in offensive-minded players. Back then, they added veterans like Allen Robinson and Trey Burton to elevate the team. Now, Poles is mirroring that strategy by focusing on the offensive line. With the current draft and free agency landscape, trades make more sense for the Bears than waiting to snag lesser players in a bidding war.
One question lingering is why the Chiefs let go of a player as talented as Thuney. It could be due to their need to sign another guard, Trey Smith, to a big contract. Good teams, like Kansas City, adapt quickly, but for the Bears, these moves are smart. Poles decided that instead of just having salary cap space, it was essential to strengthen the line early. Trading for Thuney and Jackson cost less than chasing after more uncertain free agency options.
Thuney comes with a wealth of experience. He’s a four-time Super Bowl champion and has played under esteemed coaches like Bill Belichick and Andy Reid. His insights will be valuable for Williams and the rest of the team. Despite concerns about his age, Thuney recently earned a first-team All-Pro title, which brings tremendous skill to the Bears.
The last time the Bears had a first-team All-Pro guard was in 1959, making this an impressive upgrade. With so much cap space available, it makes complete sense to invest in a proven talent rather than gamble on a less-established player. Poles has made a wise choice in opting for Thuney.
Poles is likely considering an extension for Thuney, and if he can be a solid player for two to three years, it would be seen as a successful move. Strong offensive linemen can maintain performance into their 30s, and Thuney’s experience will support Williams’ growth. Additionally, these trades create flexibility for the Bears going into the NFL Draft.
With the new guards in place, the Bears don’t need to feel pressured to draft an offensive lineman at the No. 10 spot. This gives them the freedom to choose the best player available. Whether targeting running backs or defense, they can now focus on enhancing their overall roster instead of filling immediate gaps.
Poles’ savvy trading before free agency opens should set the Bears up for a stronger future. With a good defensive draft class available, the team can look to address both offensive and defensive needs during the draft. By being proactive, the Bears are already positioning themselves for a better season ahead.
(Photo: Jay Biggerstaff / Imagn Images)
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