Garrett Bradbury’s Transition: From Minnesota Vikings to Chicago Bears
In a significant move within the NFL, former Minnesota Vikings center Garrett Bradbury has been released by the team after six seasons and has promptly secured a new contract with the Chicago Bears. The Bears have reportedly signed Bradbury to a three-year, $43.5 million deal, which includes $28.5 million fully guaranteed.
Garrett Bradbury entered the NFL as the 18th overall pick in the 2019 draft, selected by the Minnesota Vikings. Over six seasons, he established himself as a reliable presence on the offensive line, starting all 88 regular-season games he played. Notably, he began his career with a streak of 39 consecutive starts. Bradbury’s consistency and durability were evident, as he played all 1,117 offensive snaps in the previous season.
Despite his contributions, the Vikings decided to release Bradbury, designating him as a post-June 1 cut. This strategic move allows the team to spread out the salary cap hit, resulting in a dead cap charge of approximately $3 million for 2025 but yielding $14.7 million in cap savings. The decision to part ways with Bradbury aligns with the Vikings’ recent efforts to revamp their offensive line, including the signing of veteran center Ryan Kelly to a two-year, $18 million contract.
The Chicago Bears have been proactive in the free agency market, aiming to bolster their roster for the upcoming season. The addition of Garrett Bradbury addresses a crucial need in their offensive line, providing stability and experience at the center position. The three-year, $43.5 million contract, with $28.5 million fully guaranteed, reflects the Bears’ confidence in Bradbury’s abilities and their commitment to protecting their quarterback and enhancing the running game.
Minnesota Vikings: The release of Bradbury signifies a shift in the Vikings’ strategy to strengthen their offensive line. By acquiring Ryan Kelly, they aim to bring a fresh dynamic to their blocking schemes. The cap savings from Bradbury’s release provide financial flexibility to address other roster needs, potentially in areas such as defense or skill positions.
Chicago Bears: For the Bears, securing Bradbury is a strategic move to solidify their offensive front. His experience and consistency are expected to enhance the team’s pass protection and run-blocking efficiency. This acquisition aligns with the Bears’ broader strategy to compete more effectively in their division, addressing one of the critical areas that needed improvement from the previous season.
As Garrett Bradbury transitions to the Chicago Bears, both teams anticipate the impact of these changes on their performance in the upcoming season. The Vikings will integrate new personnel into their offensive line, aiming for improved cohesion and effectiveness. Meanwhile, the Bears expect Bradbury’s presence to contribute significantly to their offensive stability and overall competitiveness.
This development underscores the dynamic nature of the NFL, where strategic decisions in player personnel can significantly influence team trajectories. Fans and analysts alike will be keenly observing how these moves unfold on the field when the season commences.