Patriots Trade Center Garrett Bradbury to Bears
The Chicago Bears have taken a significant step ahead of the new league year by trading for center Garrett Bradbury. This decision comes just a few days after the unexpected retirement of Drew Dalman, leaving the Bears in need of a capable center. According to sources, the Bears will send a 2027 fifth-round draft pick to the New England Patriots to acquire Bradbury.
Details of the Trade
The trade is set to be finalized once the new league year begins on Wednesday. Bradbury, a former first-round pick in 2019, brings experience and stability to the Bears’ offensive line after playing six seasons with the Minnesota Vikings. Last March, he signed a two-year deal worth up to $12 million with the Patriots.
Contract and Impact
- Bradbury’s remaining contract value: $4.7 million for the final year.
- He started all 17 regular-season games and four playoff games during his time in New England.
- His experience will help strengthen an offensive line that has seen a 40% reduction in starters this offseason.
The Bears lost Drew Dalman, who has officially been placed on the reserve/retired list. Additionally, linebacker Tremaine Edmunds was released, further pushing the Bears to make new acquisitions. To add to their flexibility, the franchise has generated $44 million in cap space following the trade of wide receiver DJ Moore to the Buffalo Bills.
Bradbury’s Background
Garrett Bradbury is known for his productive seasons with the Vikings, where he thrived in a zone scheme primarily focused on play-action and misdirection. In 2025, under Bears coach Ben Johnson, the team utilized play-action on 32% of dropbacks, achieving a 15% explosive play rate—the sixth-highest in the league.
Looking Ahead
As the Bears prepare for the new season, Bradbury’s experience will be crucial. The team’s strategies and recent roster changes will aim to bolster their performance and adapt to their new dynamics. Meanwhile, the Patriots are expected to fill the gap left by Bradbury with 2025 third-round pick Wilson, who has experience at center and will likely transition back to that position.
