The Chicago Bears have been busy the last two weeks acquiring new players in the trenches on both offense and defense. Last week, the Bears traded for offensive guards Joe Thuney and Jonah Jackson. On Monday, Chicago followed up those trades by signing center Drew Dalman, defensive end Dayo Odeyingbo and defensive tackle Grady Jarrett.
While each signing brought excitement, many fans anticipate these new acquisitions introductory press conferences. The first handful of these happened Wednesday when Jarrett, Jackson and Thuney spoke to the media. Thuney and Jackson had a joint press conference while Jarrett's was solo.
During Thuney's availability, the media peppered him with questions about a potential contract extension with the Bears. The 32-year-old is entering the final year of his contract and may be looking for another multi-year deal worth top money. Thuney tired his best to dodge these questions, giving vague responses.
According to Courtney Cronin, Thuney said, "I’m grateful to be here and I’m pumped to play. I’ll let the business side of it handle itself. Excited to get on the field with the guys in OTAs and I’m excited to start working. Just looking forward to it."
Joe Thuney said he isn't sure where things stand RE: a contract extension (given the Bears traded for him entering the final year of his deal) and wouldn't say what his priorities are as far as an extension or playing 2025 with the prospect of becoming a free agent.
— Courtney Cronin (@CourtneyRCronin) March 12, 2025
Thuney: "I’m…
Joe Thuney Deflects Contract Extension Questions During Introductory Press Conference
Thuney's inability to provide a concrete answer shouldn't worry Bears fans too much. Ben Johnson and Ryan Poles wouldn't have traded for the 32-year-old if they didn't plan on extending him. Even though Thuney is on the plus side of 30, he was still one of best left guards in the league last season.
That is precisely why Johnson and Poles traded for him. So, barring something unforeseen happening in 2025, Thuney will likely receive some sort of contract extension before the 2026 season.
Making sure Thuney ends his career as a Bear will ensure that Caleb Williams has great protection, at least till the end of his rookie deal.