Garrett Bradbury Joins the Chicago Bears on a Three-Year Deal
Former Minnesota Vikings center Garrett Bradbury has officially found a new home after his release from the team. The Chicago Bears have signed him to a three-year, $43.5 million contract, including $28.5 million fully guaranteed. This move strengthens the Bears’ offensive line and provides Bradbury with a fresh start after spending six seasons in Minnesota.
Bradbury’s Time with the Vikings
Garrett Bradbury was selected 18th overall by the Minnesota Vikings in the first round of the 2019 NFL Draft. Coming out of North Carolina State, he was known for his athleticism and quick footwork, making him a strong fit for the Vikings’ zone-blocking scheme. Over the years, Bradbury became a key piece of the Vikings’ offensive line, starting in 88 games during his tenure.
Despite his strengths in run blocking, Bradbury faced some challenges in pass protection. His relatively smaller size for a center made it difficult to handle stronger defensive tackles, leading to occasional struggles in maintaining a strong pocket presence. While he showed improvement in recent seasons, the Vikings decided to move in a different direction, especially after acquiring veteran center Ryan Kelly.
The decision to release Bradbury came as a surprise to some, as he had just signed a three-year, $15.75 million extension with the Vikings in 2023. However, the team prioritized a new approach on the offensive line, leading to his departure.
Chicago Bears Make a Bold Move
The Chicago Bears wasted no time in securing Bradbury’s services. With a young quarterback and a need to strengthen the offensive line, the Bears saw Bradbury as an ideal addition. His experience in the NFC North and familiarity with rival defenses make him a valuable asset.
Bradbury’s contract with the Bears reflects their confidence in his ability. The three-year, $43.5 million deal, including $28.5 million guaranteed, is a significant investment for a center. The Bears hope that his skill set will help improve their run game while providing much-needed stability in the middle of the offensive line.
Impact on the NFC North
Bradbury’s move to Chicago adds an interesting dynamic to the rivalry between the Vikings and the Bears. The NFC North is known for its physical battles, and this move means Bradbury will now be lining up against his former teammates twice a year.
For the Vikings, this marks a shift in their offensive line philosophy. Ryan Kelly, the newly acquired veteran center, brings a different style of play that the team hopes will elevate their pass protection. Meanwhile, for the Bears, Bradbury’s arrival signals a commitment to fortifying their offensive unit as they build toward playoff contention.
Looking Ahead
As Bradbury transitions to the Bears, all eyes will be on how he performs in Chicago’s offensive system. If he can maintain his strengths while improving his pass-blocking consistency, he could become a key leader for the Bears. With the 2025 season approaching, the NFC North is shaping up to be more competitive than ever, and Bradbury’s presence will play a crucial role in Chicago’s offensive success.