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Joe Thuney

Joe Thuney Player Profile

Summary

Joe Thuney was drafted in the 2016 NFL Draft, Round 3, (pick 78) out of North Carolina State. Thuney is regarded as one of the more consistent, technically sound interior linemen in the NFL. He’s got a strong resume—multiple Super Bowls, Pro Bowl selections—and brings versatility and experience to the Bears’ offensive line.

Strengths

Here are some of his key strengths:

  • Versatility & positional flexibility: Thuney started games at guard, has played center and even filled in at tackle in emergency situations. His ability to adapt across the line is a major asset. Kansas City Chiefs

  • Technique & football intelligence: He is known for consistent fundamentals—good hand placement, solid footwork, strong awareness of angles and space. He rarely gets caught off‑balance and processes blocks well. mnchiefsfan.substack.com

  • Durability and reliability: Since his rookie season, Thuney has been a regular starter and has logged very high snap counts without many missed games. Kansas City Chiefs

  • Run‑blocking competence in zone/scheme fits: He’s been praised for being an above‑average run‑blocker in schemes that emphasize movement, pulling and finishing blocks. Patriots

  • High‑level pass protection: In recent years, especially, he has performed at a top level in pass protection, helping his team allow minimal sacks when he’s on the line. SI

Weaknesses

Even strong players have areas to improve. For Thuney, these include:

  • Lack of elite size/anchor vs power/elite defenders: While technically sound, some evaluations mention that he isn’t the most physically dominant lineman—when bumped by very powerful defensive players, he can be challenged in raw strength matchups. CLNS Media

  • Transition to tackle/edge situations: Although capable of playing multiple positions, his effectiveness outside of guard (e.g., left tackle) is less proven and some technique issues surfaced when he’s moved out wide. Reddit

  • Run‑blocking vs elite defenders/less‑ideal scheme fits: While good in many schemes, one article noted his run‑block grade dropped in certain contexts (especially early in 2025 with Chicago) showing some vulnerability in specific matchups. Da Windy City

Fit & Outlook

Short‑term: For the 2025 season and beyond, Thuney gives the Bears a significant upgrade inside. His leadership, technical polish and versatility make him a strong foundation piece for improved offensive‑line performance.

  • Mid‑term: He still has several high‑level years ahead (according to analysts) and can help anchor the interior while younger linemen around him develop. His ceiling is as one of the best guards in the league when used properly. Windy City Gridiron

  • Key factors: Continued maintenance of his physical condition, staying healthy, and being in a scheme that plays to his strengths (zone/run‑mix, strong pass‑pro emphasis) will maximize his value. Also, if the Bears use him at other line spots, ensuring his technique adjusts will matter.

  • Ceiling & Floor:

    • Floor: A very good starting guard, likely Pro‑Bowl‑level yearly, who reliably protects the interior.

    • Ceiling: Among the elite guards in the NFL, a cornerstone for an offensive line that enables both strong run and pass production.