The Kansas City Chiefs have officially parted ways with Pro Bowl guard Joe Thuney, trading him to the Chicago Bears in exchange for a fourth-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.
Thuney played a pivotal role in Kansas City's offensive line, ensuring quarterback protection and contributing to the team’s success in recent seasons. His departure marks a significant shift for the franchise, prompting head coach Andy Reid to reflect on Thuney’s impact and the difficult decision to move forward without him.
Andy Reid’s Heartfelt Tribute to Thuney
Following the trade, Chiefs head coach Andy Reid spoke highly of Thuney, acknowledging his dedication and toughness on the field.
"He’s one of my favorite all-time guys that I’ve coached," Reid expressed. "He’s just a good dude — tough, dirty tough. He’s going to do Chicago a heck of a job. He still can play."
Reid’s words highlight the deep respect and admiration he holds for Thuney, emphasizing the Bears’ gain in acquiring such a talented and hardworking player.
Chiefs’ Salary Cap Challenges
The decision to trade Thuney was not an easy one, but it was largely driven by salary cap constraints. With Kansas City currently $30 million over the cap, the team had to make difficult roster adjustments.
"You’ve got to be able to manage this cap thing — and it’s a nightmare that way," Reid explained. "If you’re not going to push a ton of money forward, then you’ve got to manage the cap and try to keep consistent with this whole winning thing.
"And it’s not easy to manage. Sometimes, you have to make these decisions, and it just kicks you right in the butt. They’re tough ones. They’re just tough."
This financial strain comes after the Chiefs made costly moves, including franchise-tagging Trey Smith and re-signing linebacker Nick Bolton.
Who Will Replace Thuney?
Despite Thuney’s departure, Reid remains confident in the team’s depth at the left guard position. He mentioned second-year tackle Kingsley Suamataia and Mike Caliendo, who stepped in at left guard when Thuney was temporarily moved to left tackle before the playoffs.
"We’re lucky to have some guys that we feel like can step in and play that position," Reid stated. "You’ve got to go ahead, and you’ve got to take whatever risk there is. You’ve got to take it and say, ‘Hey, listen, we’ve done some things in the draft to make sure that we’re in a position where we can make this whole winning thing a possibility.’"
"We did that last year with Kingsley, and he’ll have an opportunity. Caliendo did a nice job working into that position. So, you’ve got competition at that left guard spot. Then, it gave us that opportunity to maybe move Joe — and move him into a place that he really wanted to come to."
What’s Next for the Chiefs?
As Kansas City continues to navigate its salary cap challenges, the team is expected to rely on its young talent to fill the gaps left by Thuney’s exit. With training camp approaching, all eyes will be on Suamataia and Caliendo, as they compete for a starting role on the offensive line.