Bears coach says the quiet part out loud about Joe Thuney's impact off the field

From the moment the Chicago Bears acquired left guard Joe Thuney in the offseason, the fan base knew most of their offensive line problems from 2024 would be solved.

Through nine games in the 2025 season, that was proven to be correct as Thuney, along with other newcomers Jonah Jackson and Drew Dalman, have helped in pass protection and run blocking. Bears offensive coordinator Declan Doyle told the media that Thuney's impact off the field is just as significant as what he does on the field.

“He’s done a great job of doing everything we’ve asked of him. But the leadership behind the scenes is really the area he has the biggest impact.”

Thuney has helped the Bears turn things around in 2025

This year, Thuney has played in every game at left guard and has been the same guy Bears fans were expecting to see from his time with the New England Patriots and Kansas City Chiefs. Thuney is the 11th highest graded guard in the NFL, according to Pro Football Focus, with a grade of 72.7. Where he has made the most significant impact is in pass blocking, as he has the highest PFF pass block grade with 85.4.

How good has Thuney been in pass blocking this season? In 366 pass block snaps, he's only allowed seven quarterback pressures, one quarterback hit, and zero sacks on the season.

Thuney has had a successful NFL career and knows what a winning culture looks like. He's won four Super Bowls, been selected to three Pro Bowls, and has made the first-team All-Pro team twice.

The 32-year-old veteran has seen it all and has blocked for two of the best quarterbacks in NFL history, with Tom Brady and Patrick Mahomes. Thuney has played a significant role in helping them as quarterbacks stay upright, and has done the same for Caleb Williams.

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There might not be a more impactful offseason addition for the Bears than getting Thuney.