Chicago Bears Officially Clear Their Last Major Contract Hurdle

GM Ryan Poles has been efficient all offseason about locking down players to new contracts. He secured Chicago Bears cornerback Kyler Gordon to an extension, along with linebacker T.J. Edwards and new right guard Jonah Jackson. Only one notable name remained unaccounted for: Joe Thuney. The former All-Pro guard arrived from Kansas City two months ago via trade. Though in his 30s, most believed the Bears wanted to lock him down for another couple of years, providing the offensive line with much-needed stability.

According to Thuney's agent, Mike McCartney, after some time working out the details, both sides have reached an agreement. The deal is worth $17.5 million per year, putting him in the top 10 for all guards but nowhere close to the highest paid. It feels like a great contract for both sides. Thuney gets a lucrative extension at his age, while the Bears didn't overpay him. The deal is another that aligns directly with quarterback Caleb Williams' rookie contract, meaning more major money will come off the books right when he's due for an extension—smart business from Poles.

The Chicago Bears finally have stability up front.

Thuney, Jackson, and new center Drew Dalman are all under contract through the 2027 season. That means if they stay healthy and close to their current productivity, the Chicago Bears' interior offensive line is set for the next three years. That is priceless continuity for a young quarterback, and he continues his development. After what Williams went through last season, it is a welcome change. Thuney's presence alone can't be understated. He is a Hall of Fame-caliber player with years of championship-level experience from his time in New England and Kansas City. If he remains close to the player he's been for the past decade, the Bears got a monumental steal. Normally, Poles tries to avoid giving big money to older players, but there are exceptions. Thuney is one of them.