Bears acquire C Bradbury from Patriots for 2027 fifth-round pick, boosting O-line depth
The Chicago Bears have traded for center Garrett Bradbury from the New England Patriots, securing a vital piece for their offensive line amid significant roster changes.
Why it matters: The acquisition of Bradbury addresses an immediate need for the Bears following the unexpected retirement of former center Drew Dalman and the loss of linebacker Tremaine Edmunds.
- The Bears lost 40% of their starters this offseason, creating urgency to fortify their offensive front.
- Bradbury brings 105 career starts and experience as a first-round pick in 2019, adding stability to a line that has seen considerable turnover.
What’s new: In exchange for Bradbury, the Bears will send a 2027 fifth-round pick to the Patriots, with the trade set to be processed when the new league year begins next Wednesday.
- Bradbury signed a two-year deal worth up to $12 million with New England just last March, making him a relevant player with significant upside for the Bears.
- His performance last season included starting all 17 regular-season games plus four playoff appearances, showcasing his durability and reliability.
By the numbers: Bradbury's previous role with the Minnesota Vikings highlights his capabilities within a complex offensive scheme.
- Under coach Ben Johnson, the Bears operated under center 49% of the time in 2025 and utilized play-action on 32% of dropbacks, indicating a system that could benefit from Bradbury's adeptness in both pass protection and run blocking.
Yes, but: While Bradbury provides much-needed reinforcement, the Bears must also address lingering questions about their overall depth and performance across the offensive line.
- The team’s restructuring efforts have freed up approximately $44 million in cap space since Tuesday, including financial flexibility gained from trading DJ Moore to the Buffalo Bills.
What’s next: As the Bears navigate this transitional period, they will aim to leverage the newly acquired resources effectively, ensuring that the offensive line can support their evolving offensive strategy.
- With Bradbury now in the fold, the focus will shift to integrating him into the Bears' system while continuing to evaluate potential future acquisitions or draft strategies.
The bottom line: The trade for Garrett Bradbury not only fills a critical position for the Bears but also reflects their larger strategy of rebuilding and enhancing their roster to compete more effectively in the upcoming seasons.
