The Chicago Bears made several significant moves over the past three months to improve their team. It started with a massive influx of help along the offensive line with Jonah Jackson, moved into free agency with Drew Dalman, and culminated in the draft with new weapons Colston Loveland and Luther Burden. However, the move that may end up having the greatest impact is the trade for Joe Thuney. It was a shock to many when the Bears swung a deal with the Kansas City Chiefs for the All-Pro guard.
Word is the former champions didn't want to give him up. Unfortunately, salary cap concerns forced their hand. GM Ryan Poles sent them a 4th round pick, and Thuney joined the Bears as their new left guard. He was then swiftly locked up to a two-year extension, keeping him in Chicago through 2027. While fans believe he can be a major upgrade this season, they find it hard to get excited about somebody who turns 33 this year. However, Jeff Hughes of Da Bears Blog learned from a league exec that those people have no idea who the team just acquired.
What does Joe Thuney bring to Chicago? "Joe is one of the best football players in the league. Honestly, he won't take shit. Everybody will do everything right because he won't allow anything else. I'm not sure anybody hates losing more than Joe. That's why he didn't hesitate when Andy asked him to move outside, a position he had no business playing. He wants to win and he'll do everything he can to achieve that."
Joe Thuney can be the Bears' Jack Reynolds.
For those who don't know the name, that's okay. Reynolds was a two-time Pro Bowl linebacker in the 1970s and 1980s. He spent 11 seasons with the Los Angeles Rams, helping them reach the Super Bowl in 1979. However, in 1981, he was released at age 34 with the belief he was spent. However, the San Francisco 49ers signed him to join their young, talented defense. Head coach Bill Walsh wanted him because he felt Reynolds had excellent experience, intelligence, and a single-minded dedication to the game of football. He famously showed up to team breakfasts fully suited up for games. Reynolds went on to help the 49ers win two Super Bowls.
The Bears hope Joe Thuney brings that to Chicago. He's already won four championships in New England and Kansas City. His dedication to the game is unquestioned. The Bears have a young, talented offense that needs guidance. You couldn't ask for a better mentor.
