Earlier this offseason, the Kansas City Chiefs made the polarizing decision to trade 2-time All-Pro guard Joe Thuney to the Chicago Bears.
After four strong seasons in Kansas City, Thuney is now a Bear. But, after his new contract details surfaced with the Bears, there is a world where he ends up returning to the Chiefs.
Thuney ended up on a new 3-year deal worth $51 million, but the details show that the Bears have an out after the 2026 season.
A Blockbuster Trade and a New Deal
Joe Thuney, a cornerstone of the Chiefs’ offensive line since signing a five-year, $80 million contract in 2021, was traded to the Bears in March 2025 for a 2026 fourth-round draft pick. The move was part of Kansas City’s strategy to get younger and manage their salary cap, especially after placing the franchise tag on emerging star guard Trey Smith. The trade saved the Chiefs $16 million in cap space, allowing them to address other roster needs while entrusting the left guard position to second-year player Kingsley Suamataia.
In Chicago, Thuney quickly proved his value as one of the NFL’s premier pass-blocking guards. On May 20, 2025, the Bears secured his services with a two-year, $35 million extension, bringing his total compensation to $51 million over three years, with $33.5 million guaranteed. This new deal, averaging $17.5 million per year, solidifies Thuney’s status as one of the highest-paid guards in the league. However, a key detail in the contract structure has opened the door for a potential return to Kansas City.
The Contract Clause That Could Bring Thuney Back
According to reports, the Bears’ extension includes an out clause after the 2026 season, allowing Chicago to part ways with Thuney and save $5 million in cap space. By 2026, Thuney will be 34 years old, and while he remains an elite performer—boasting a 97.8% pass block win rate over the past two seasons—age-related decline could prompt the Bears to consider cutting him. If Chicago, a team that has struggled to find consistency, opts to move on, Thuney could become a free agent in 2027.
This scenario sets the stage for a potential Chiefs reunion. Kansas City, led by general manager Brett Veach, has a history of making savvy roster moves, and Thuney’s familiarity with the team’s system, coaching staff, and quarterback Patrick Mahomes makes him an attractive option. Even if Thuney’s performance dips slightly by 2027, his veteran presence and technical prowess could be a perfect fit for an offense built around Mahomes, who recently received a contract revision that increased his pay from 2023 to 2026, potentially freeing up cap space for strategic signings.
Why a Reunion Makes Sense
Thuney’s tenure with the Chiefs was nothing short of stellar. A four-time Super Bowl champion (two with the New England Patriots and two with Kansas City), Thuney earned first-team All-Pro honors in 2023 and was a key component of the Chiefs’ offensive line, which allowed zero sacks in their Super Bowl LVII victory over the Philadelphia Eagles. His versatility was on full display in 2024 when he seamlessly transitioned to left tackle late in the season, protecting Mahomes’ blind side during the Chiefs’ run to Super Bowl LIX, despite their eventual loss to the Eagles.
The Chiefs’ decision to trade Thuney was driven by long-term roster construction, prioritizing younger talent like Trey Smith and addressing needs at left tackle. However, if Kansas City finds itself in need of a guard in 2027—perhaps due to injury, retirement, or underperformance from current players—Thuney’s experience and proven track record could make him a cost-effective, high-impact addition. As one of the most dependable linemen in the NFL, having started 146 games over nine seasons with only two missed games, Thuney’s durability and leadership would be invaluable.
Challenges and Considerations
A reunion is far from guaranteed. Thuney’s performance in Chicago over the next two seasons will be critical. If he maintains his elite level of play, the Bears may choose to keep him, especially as they aim to protect quarterback Caleb Williams, who was sacked a league-high 68 times in his rookie year. Additionally, the Chiefs’ offensive line landscape could change significantly by 2027, with players like Creed Humphrey and Trey Smith potentially commanding massive contracts, and the team still needing a long-term solution at left tackle.
The Bears’ organizational struggles could also play a role. If Chicago remains mired in mediocrity, as some analysts predict, they may prioritize younger, cheaper talent, making Thuney a cap casualty. For Kansas City, the question will be whether they can afford to bring back a veteran guard, even at a potentially reduced rate, given their investments in other positions.
A Fanbase Left Hopeful
For Chiefs fans, the idea of Joe Thuney returning to Arrowhead Stadium is a tantalizing prospect. His departure was a bittersweet moment, as he was a fan favorite and a stabilizing force on the offensive line. The possibility of seeing him back in red and gold, anchoring the line in front of Mahomes, is a narrative that will keep Chiefs Kingdom buzzing. As one source noted, “If any offense can help [Thuney] blend in or return to success, it’s in front of Patrick Mahomes.”
As the 2025 season unfolds, all eyes will be on Thuney’s performance in Chicago and the Chiefs’ evolving roster. For now, the door to a reunion remains ajar, and in the unpredictable world of the NFL, that’s enough to keep the dream alive.