There Is An Update On Joe Thuney's Contract Situation

When the Chicago Bears traded for Joe Thuney last month, the objective was obvious. They wanted a proven veteran presence who could help stabilize the offensive line. Thuney has four Super Bowl rings and multiple Pro Bowls under his belt. He's still widely considered one of the best guards in the NFL. Add in the leadership aspect he is renowned for and the trade to get him was a no-brainer. However, there was one issue the team would have to address. Thuney only has one year left on his contract.

Part of the reason Kansas City couldn't keep him was because they knew he needed an extension but didn't have the cap space necessary. The assumption was that Chicago did and would be able to accommodate him. Since then, not much has happened. In fact, Jonah Jackson got an extension done before Thuney did. Some have started wondering if something is going on. Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribune provided a quick update. His belief is something will get worked out, but likely not until after the draft.

My hunch is the Bears will look into a possible extension for Thuney. The fact one hasn’t been completed yet is neither surprising nor concerning. The front office has been busy with free agency and draft preparation. It takes two to get a deal done, so obviously Thuney would have to want to sign an extension.

Joe Thuney should get done by August at the latest.

It is safe to assume the Bears will want him locked down before the regular season. One factor that might be slowing negotiations is Kyler Gordon. GM Ryan Poles has said it is the team's goal to get their standout nickel cornerback extended. They may wish to prioritize him, considering he's younger and will require a longer deal. Joe Thuney likely won't get anything beyond a two-year extension, though it will be at a hefty rate. Everything indicates the Bears are focusing their contract work to line up with the end of Caleb Williams' rookie deal in 2027. Thuney probably won't go beyond that year. It is merely a matter of figuring out the final dollar amount.