Joe Thuney, a four-time Super Bowl champion and one of the most iconic figures of the Kansas City Chiefs, has stunned the football world by signing a two-year, $35 million contract extension with the Chicago Bears. Announced on May 20, 2025, this deal ensures Thuney will remain in Chicago through 2027, with a total contract value of $51 million over the next three years, including $33.5 million in guaranteed money. With an average annual salary of $17.5 million, Thuney has the potential to become the highest-paid guard in NFL history if he completes the full term of the contract.
Journey from Chiefs to Bears
Thuney, 32, was acquired by the Chicago Bears from the Kansas City Chiefs in March 2025 through a trade that cost a fourth-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. Prior to that, he spent four seasons with the Chiefs, where he won two Super Bowl titles and earned first-team All-Pro honors in two consecutive years (2023 and 2024). Before joining Kansas City in 2021 on a five-year, $80 million deal, Thuney played five seasons with the New England Patriots, securing two additional Super Bowl championships and becoming the first player in NFL history to start his career with three Super Bowl appearances in his first three seasons.
In the 2024 season, Thuney showcased remarkable versatility by transitioning from left guard to left tackle starting in Week 15, effectively protecting quarterback Patrick Mahomes’ blind side during the Chiefs’ journey to Super Bowl LIX. Although Kansas City fell 40-22 to the Philadelphia Eagles in the Super Bowl, Thuney was lauded for posting the NFL’s highest pass block win rate of 97.8% over the past two seasons.
Shocking Decision and Bears’ Strategy
Thuney’s decision to sign an extension with the Bears, an NFL rival, sent shockwaves through the football community, particularly among Chiefs fans. The move is not only a financial commitment from Chicago but also a key part of their strategy to rebuild their offensive line to protect young quarterback Caleb Williams, who endured a league-high 68 sacks in his 2024 rookie season—the third-highest total in NFL history.
Bears general manager Ryan Poles, who previously worked with Thuney in Kansas City, made extending Thuney’s contract a top priority this offseason. Alongside the acquisitions of guard Jonah Jackson from the Los Angeles Rams and center Drew Dalman, the Bears are constructing a formidable and experienced offensive line to support Williams’ development. Thuney, with his four Super Bowl rings and three consecutive Pro Bowl selections (2022-2024), brings not only skill but also leadership and championship pedigree to the team.
Reactions and Outlook
New Bears head coach Ben Johnson praised Thuney as a critical piece in building a team culture rooted in hard work and belief. In a statement, Johnson emphasized, “Joe will be an integral part of our team’s growth.” Meanwhile, Ryan Poles expressed excitement about retaining Thuney in Chicago: “Joe’s leadership and experience have had a tremendous impact on our organization, and we’re fortunate to have him continue leading this team, both on and off the field.”
In Kansas City, parting ways with Thuney was a tough but necessary decision due to salary cap constraints. By trading him, the Chiefs saved $16 million in cap space while placing their trust in young guard Trey Smith, who received the franchise tag for the 2025 season.
Legacy and Future
Joe Thuney, a former NC State standout and pride of Archbishop Alter High School in Ohio, has built a remarkable career. His journey from a third-round draft pick to a four-time Super Bowl champion and one of the NFL’s premier offensive linemen is a testament to his skill, adaptability, and dedication. As he embarks on this new chapter with the Chicago Bears, Thuney’s presence is expected to elevate the team’s performance and inspire a new generation of players in their pursuit of a championship.