On Tuesday, the Chicago Bears locked in one of the best guards in football, signing Joe Thuney to a two-year contract extension worth $17.5 million annually, as reported by Adam Schefter. The new deal brings Thuney’s total compensation to $51 million over the next three seasons, with $33.5 million fully guaranteed at signing.
Here are some key takeaways from the extension:
Incredible Value for a Premier Talent
Let’s be clear — this deal is an absolute bargain for Chicago.
Joe Thuney has been named either a First or Second Team All-Pro in each of the last three seasons. His performance on the field places him among the elite interior offensive linemen in the NFL, and securing that level of talent for $17.5 million per year is outstanding. In a league where top guards are pushing toward the $20 million range, the Bears got a top tier player at a relative discount.
Cap Flexibility Gives Bears More Options
One of the most important elements of this deal is the structure. Thuney’s cap hit in 2025 will drop from $16 million to just $8 million, giving Chicago additional financial breathing room. That extra space could prove crucial if the Bears want to add talent elsewhere on the roster — whether to pursue free agents, trades, or cover for injuries down the road.
It’s a smart move that allows the Bears to remain aggressive in building a championship-caliber team.
Investing Heavily in the Offensive Line
Chicago is clearly prioritizing the trenches. With Thuney and free-agent addition Jonah Jackson both earning $17.5 million annually, the Bears now have two guards ranked among the top ten highest paid at their position. It’s a significant investment, but one that could pay massive dividends.
If Thuney maintains his All-Pro level of play, and Jackson lives up to expectations, the Bears will have one of the most dominant guard duos in the league — a critical asset in protecting Caleb Williams in year two.
Final Grade: A
This extension checks every box. The Bears retain an elite player, gain cap flexibility, and continue to build a foundation of strength in the offensive line. It’s a win-win for both sides, and another savvy move by the front office.
