The Kansas City Chiefs have decided to move on from their All-pro guard Joe Thuney, sending him to the Chicago Bears in exchange for a 2026 fourth-round draft pick. This move raises questions about the immediate future of the left side of the offensive line.
Thuney had been a key piece of the unit helping Kansas City reach multiple Super Bowls. However, this trade by General Manager Brett Veach did help to create cap space. It gives the team financial flexibility even if there are now some serious questions regarding the team’s depth on the left side of the line.
Thuney, 32, is a proven vet in this league. He started at left tackle for the Chiefs late last season further showcasing his ability to be one of the most well-rounded offensive linemen in the league. His departure makes it clear that the Chiefs are turning the page toward a more youth-focused approach while also giving themselves more options to make roster moves this offseason.
Chiefs Move On From a Key Leader
Trading Thuney is a major shift for Kansas City because he has played an essential role in the team’s offensive success ever since he joined this team. Since signing with the Chiefs in 2021, he provided stability and elite pass protection. His versatility on the offensive line allowed him to step in at left tackle when injuries forced lineup changes late in the 2024 season.
The decision to move on from the veteran lineman follows Kansas City’s choice to franchise tag Right Guard Trey Smith. With the right side of the line secured, the Chiefs now look to get younger on the left side. This trade gives the team the financial flexibility they were searching for while allowing younger players to step into starting roles.
Though Thuney is one of the league’s top interior linemen, his $16 million cap hit played a role in the team’s decision. The Chiefs now have additional cap space to address other roster needs, including left tackle, where uncertainty remains. Kansas City must now determine whether a current player or a new addition will step into Thuney’s former role.
Kansas City’s Loss Is Chicago’s Gain
For Chicago, acquiring Thuney is a move designed to protect their franchise Quarterback Caleb Williams. The Bears allowed the most sacks in the NFL last season, making offensive line improvements a top priority. Pairing Thuney with newly acquired Guard Jonah Jackson immediately strengthens the unit.
Thuney’s experience and consistency make him an invaluable addition to Chicago’s offense. He is a four-time Super Bowl champion with two First-Team All-Pro selections. His leadership and skill set should help stabilize an offensive line that struggled with consistency in 2024.
With new Head Coach Ben Johnson implementing a fresh offensive scheme, Chicago needed proven talent up front. The Bears were aggressive in their approach, securing two veteran guards who should provide immediate protection for their franchise quarterback. Thuney’s arrival signals a clear commitment to improving the offense.
Impact On KC’s Offensive Line
Now by losing Thuney, it creates both challenges and opportunities for Kansas City. The team now has to figure out where they want to look to find their answers for their left side of the offensive line. Filling his shoes is not going to be easy, especially with the limited experience currently available on the roster.
The Chiefs do have several first and second players that could play either left guard or tackle, but it will ultimately come down to the decision of Head Coach Andy Reid and their development this offseason. He will need to determine if they’re able to step in to start at those positions next season or if the front office will have to look elsewhere to fill the positions.
Kansas City has already shown its ability to develop young talent, over the past few years by developing its defense. Now, they will have to do the same for the offensive line. However, without Thuney, the left side of the line as things currently stand is unproven. The Chiefs may need to explore free agency to add another veteran to the mix or at least look at the draft to find a replacement before the season begins.
Despite Thuney’s departure, the Chiefs’ offensive system remains one of the best in the NFL. Reid has shown over his career coaching, the ability to consistently build strong lines. With Patrick Mahomes leading the offense, the unit will still be expected to perform at a high level.
Final Thoughts
Trading Thuney marks a turning point for the Chiefs as they look to reshape half of their offensive line. While his departure creates uncertainty, it also provides more financial flexibility and an opportunity for younger players on the roster to step up. Kansas City now adds to its list of concerns for this offseason ensuring that they can reshape the left side of their line so that it remains a strength.
