The Chicago Bears continue reshaping their roster around quarterback Caleb Williams.
Now they’ve added a veteran offensive lineman who is already excited to be part of Ben Johnson’s system.
Garrett Bradbury ‘Fired Up’ to Join Chicago Bears and Work With Ben Johnson
Veteran center Garrett Bradbury says he is thrilled to begin the next chapter of his NFL career after the Chicago Bears acquired him in a trade with the New England Patriots.
Shortly after arriving at Halas Hall, Bradbury said his early conversations with head coach Ben Johnson and quarterback Caleb Williams reinforced his excitement about joining the team.
“I’m fired up,” Bradbury said. “I’m not just saying that.”
Excited to Play in Ben Johnson’s Offense
Bradbury already knows plenty about Johnson’s offensive system from his time playing in the NFC North with the Minnesota Vikings.
Johnson previously served as the Detroit Lions’ offensive coordinator, and Bradbury frequently faced his offenses during divisional matchups.
According to the veteran center, Johnson’s philosophy is exactly the kind of football offensive linemen enjoy playing.
“You watch certain offenses as an offensive line, and there are offenses that excite you,” Bradbury explained.
“His is certainly one of them. You know what you’re going to get — run the football and play-action.”
Bradbury described Johnson’s system as physical and demanding, something he believes fits his playing style perfectly.
“It’s a physical brand of football, which I think every lineman wants to sign up for.”
Building Chemistry With Caleb Williams
While in Chicago finalizing the trade, Bradbury also spent time getting to know quarterback Caleb Williams, who is entering another crucial season as the Bears’ franchise quarterback.
Bradbury said the early interaction left a strong impression.
“I’ve heard great things about him and that reaffirmed everything I heard,” Bradbury said.
“He’s an awesome guy and obviously an awesome player.”
The center emphasized that his goal is to help the team continue the success it already built last season.
“I’m not coming in to try and change anything,” Bradbury said.
“I’m coming in to help.”
Reunion With Former College Teammate Joe Thuney
One of the most meaningful parts of Bradbury’s move to Chicago is the opportunity to reunite with All-Pro guard Joe Thuney.
The two were teammates at North Carolina State and even shared road trips together during their college careers.
Bradbury had high praise for his former teammate.
“He’s a stud,” Bradbury said.
“It blows my mind that two teams have let that guy walk out of the building. He’s a special guy, a true pro.”
Thuney, a four-time Super Bowl champion and multiple-time All-Pro, remains one of the most respected offensive linemen in the league.
Valuable Playoff Experience
Bradbury also brings significant experience to Chicago.
The veteran started all 21 games for the Patriots last season, including their appearance in Super Bowl LX.
Although New England ultimately lost the championship game to the Seattle Seahawks, Bradbury said the experience was unforgettable.
“You can’t put it into words,” he said.
“It was the coolest moment of my career.”
A New Chapter in Chicago
Bradbury enters his eighth NFL season with over 100 career starts and extensive familiarity with the NFC North.
Returning to the division is something he’s especially looking forward to.
“It’s a storied division with awesome rivalries,” Bradbury said.
“It’s the black-and-blue division. I’m excited to be back.”
For the Bears, Bradbury’s experience and leadership could play an important role as the team continues building around Williams and aims to stay among the top contenders in the NFC.
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