The New England Patriots, known for their calculated approach in the offseason, recently faced a pivotal decision regarding offensive lineman Joe Thuney. Despite his reputation as one of the league’s top offensive linemen, the Patriots ultimately chose not to pursue a trade with the Kansas City Chiefs to bring Thuney back to New England.
Reports indicated that the Patriots did consider the possibility of acquiring Thuney but ultimately decided not to meet Kansas City’s asking price. This decision surprised many, especially considering New England’s clear need to upgrade their offensive line.
The Patriots reportedly were hesitant to give up a fourth-round pick in this year’s draft. With only eight total picks and several roster holes to fill, the team took a conservative approach. However, passing on a proven lineman like Thuney raised questions about their strategy heading into 2025.
Instead, Thuney was traded to the Chicago Bears, who secured him by offering a 2026 fourth-round pick. The addition of Thuney gives the Bears a major boost, strengthening their offensive line at a critical time.
Meanwhile, New England’s offensive line remains a major concern. Injuries to key players, including Cole Strange and David Andrews, combined with a lack of depth, contributed to the unit’s struggles last season. The Patriots’ offensive line consistently ranked among the league’s worst in terms of protecting the quarterback and creating running lanes.
Looking ahead, the Patriots enter free agency with around $125 million in available cap space, giving them plenty of financial flexibility to address their offensive line issues. While passing on Thuney was a controversial decision, the team still has the resources to pursue other upgrades. How they approach these next steps will be key as they work to rebuild and strengthen their offensive front for the upcoming season.