The Chicago Bears knew that they had to beef up the offensive line after the beating that Caleb Williams took.
Between rookie Ozzy Trapilo, and additions Jonah Jackson and Drew Dalman they have made some major changes to the group. However, the piece that will put it altogether is the third most important player on the 2025 roster, Joe Thuney.
Ranking most important Bears on 2025 roster: Number 3 Joe Thuney
Joe Thuney has a strong case to be a Hall of Famer when his career is over, and it will be capped off with his run on the Bears. Thuney has been one of the best left guards in the NFL since he stepped on the field, and he has even been a solid contributor when injuries have forced him to step out to left tackle.
You can say that it is easier when he is blocking for Tom Brady and Patrick Mahomes, but you can just as simply say that those teams knew they needed someone like Thuney to protect those players, and the presence of Thuney made those players win more.
More than just adding one of the best left guards in the NFL, the team added a leader, a veteran, and someone who has been there before. He has four Super Bowl rings and a 17-4 record in the playoffs. The Bears are 0-2 in the playoffs since Thuney has entered the league.
Read more: Ranking most important Bears on 2025 roster: Number 4 must lead pass rush
If Chicago makes a run this season, most will look back and think about the addition of Thuney as the move that changed the trajectory. It solidified the offensive line, showed that the team is ready to compete, and added one of the more experienced leaders in the NFL. If anything, putting Thuney at three is too low; there are not many players as important.