In what can only be described as a jaw-dropping move that shook the NFL world to its core, Chicago Bears’ general manager Ben Johnson orchestrated an unexpected series of signings that has sent ripples of excitement and speculation across the league. In a bold and unexpected move, the Bears, known for their aggressive approach to free agency in recent years, secured two of the top offensive linemen in the NFL: Joe Thuney of the Kansas City Chiefs and Jonah Jackson of the Detroit Lions.
The pair, both long-time stalwarts in their respective franchises, are considered two of the best offensive linemen in the league, and their signings have left many questioning what Johnson’s vision for the future of the Bears truly looks like. It is not every day that a team manages to acquire two Pro Bowl-caliber players from rival franchises, especially in one fell swoop.
Here, we dive deep into the mind of Ben Johnson, explore the ramifications of these signings, and evaluate what they mean for the Bears’ offensive line and their future prospects in the NFC North and beyond.
Ben Johnson’s Bold Strategy: Building Through the Trenches
The Chicago Bears’ offensive line has long been a weak point of the team. Despite efforts over the years to build around quarterback Justin Fields, the lack of protection up front has often been the downfall of the offense, limiting its ability to fully flourish. With a young, talented signal caller in Fields, the team’s brass has been under immense pressure to shore up this key area of need, and Ben Johnson’s acquisition of Thuney and Jackson suggests that he is fully aware of the urgency.
HBAgency
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While the Bears’ offense has shown flashes of brilliance under Fields, particularly in the latter half of the 2023 season, their offensive line has remained a glaring issue. Fields, one of the most dynamic quarterbacks in the NFL, has had to rely on his legs more than most, and with an unstable pocket, his development has been held back. This is where Thuney and Jackson come into play.
Both Thuney and Jackson are known for their versatility and ability to protect the quarterback while excelling in the running game. Their skills complement each other in a way that provides the Bears with an offensive line that is capable of both pass protection and creating running lanes. This dual-threat approach in the trenches is something Johnson must have kept in mind when targeting these two players.
By signing these two Pro Bowl offensive linemen, Johnson has made it clear that he intends to build the foundation of the team from the inside out. Protecting Fields and providing him with the time and space to operate will be paramount in the Bears’ efforts to evolve into an elite offense. If they can build a solid line around him, the sky’s the limit for what this offense can achieve, especially with the weapons the team has added in recent years.
Joe Thuney: A Proven Winner
Let’s start with Joe Thuney. A two-time Super Bowl champion with the Kansas City Chiefs, Thuney has long been regarded as one of the top interior offensive linemen in the NFL. His consistency and elite-level pass protection have made him one of the most sought-after guards in the league, and despite being in his prime, Thuney’s decision to sign with the Bears sent shockwaves through the NFL.
Thuney’s resume speaks for itself. Since being drafted by the New England Patriots in 2016, Thuney has been a model of reliability, starting in every game for the Patriots during his first four seasons and eventually helping the team secure two Super Bowl titles. His impact was felt immediately, as he quickly became one of the top guards in the league. After leaving New England and signing with the Kansas City Chiefs in 2020, Thuney continued to shine. His ability to protect the quarterback, while also excelling in run-blockingmade him a crucial piece of the Chiefs’ offensive line.
For the Bears, Thuney brings championship pedigree and a high football IQ. He has the leadership qualities necessary to anchor an offensive line, and his experience in high-pressure situations will be invaluable for the team’s younger players. Fields will have the luxury of playing behind a lineman who has been through the highest of highs in the NFL and can lend his expertise to help mold the younger Bears offensive line.
HBAgency
HBAgency
HBAgency
HBAgency
What Thuney brings to the table goes beyond just his on-field play. His leadership in the locker room will be crucial as he helps guide the Bears’ young offensive linemen. Having played for both the Patriots and Chiefs, two of the most successful franchises of the last decade, Thuney knows what it takes to win at the highest level. His work ethic and discipline will certainly rub off on the rest of the team.
Jonah Jackson: The Rising Star
Jonah Jackson, on the other hand, may not have the same championship pedigree as Thuney, but his career is trending in the right direction. Since being drafted by the Detroit Lions in 2020, Jackson has quickly established himself as one of the premier guards in the league. Known for his physicality, relentless motor, and nasty streak, Jackson has earned a reputation as one of the toughest offensive linemen in the NFL.
Jackson’s impact on the Lions’ offense cannot be overstated. He has been instrumental in helping the team establish a more consistent ground game while also providing solid protection for their quarterbacks. His ability to maul defenders in the running game has made him a fan favorite in Detroit, and his toughness on the field is matched only by his high football IQ.