When Joe Thuney hits the field for the Chicago Bears this season, he’ll be lining up next to a new center-but it's a face he knows well. With the unexpected retirement of 27-year-old Pro Bowl center Drew Dalman, Bears GM Ryan Poles had to make a quick pivot. While free agency offered options like Tyler Linderbaum, Tyler Biadasz, and Connor McGovern, Poles opted for a more strategic move.
The Bears traded a 2027 fifth-round pick to the New England Patriots for center Garrett Bradbury. Bradbury, who spent six seasons with the Minnesota Vikings before a stint in New England, is no stranger to Thuney.
The two were college teammates and roommates at NC State, and now they’re reuniting in Chicago for the 2026 NFL season. Thuney even shared his excitement on Instagram, highlighting their renewed partnership.
In a nod to their fresh start, Thuney’s post included the song “New Beginnings.” This chemistry from their college days will be crucial as the Bears aim to build on last season's successes under coach Ben Johnson. The Bears clinched the NFC North and took down the Packers in the playoffs, thanks in large part to the solid play of their interior line-Thuney, Dalman, and right guard Jonah Jackson.
Now, Bradbury, a 2019 first-round pick, steps into a pivotal role. He’ll need to anchor the center position and support third-year quarterback Caleb Williams as they both adapt to Johnson’s system. The pressure is on Bradbury, but with a familiar and talented ally like Thuney beside him, the Bears are poised for another strong season.