Chicago Bears guard Joe Thuney didn't have to sign a contract extension to remain with the team beyond 2025. But he did. And here's why.

The Bears acquired Thuney in a trade with the Kansas City Chiefs in exchange for a 2026 fourth-round pick. He had just one year left on his current deal, which made signing him to an extension a priority for general manager Ryan Poles this offseason.

Joe Thuney could’ve played out the final year of his contract and tested free agency next year. Instead, he committed to the Chicago Bears for two more years.