Chicago agreed on March 6, 2026 to send a 2027 fifth-round…
Chicago agreed on March 6, 2026 to send a 2027 fifth-round pick to New England for center Garrett Bradbury, a deal that became official with the new league year on March 11. The Bears moved quickly after Drew Dalman's retirement, adding a veteran who had started all 105 of his NFL games and every game of New England's 2025 run to Super Bowl LX.
Chicago Bears Received
- player Garrett Bradbury
New England Patriots Received
- pick a 2027 5th round pick
Trade Analysis
The Exchange
Chicago's deal with New England was reported on March 6, 2026 and processed when the league year opened on March 11. The Bears sent a 2027 fifth-round pick for Garrett Bradbury, filling an unexpected center vacancy created when Drew Dalman retired. Bradbury arrived with 105 career starts and had not missed a game in the previous two seasons.
Chicago's Rationale
The Bears needed a credible starter immediately. Their offense had benefited from a rebuilt interior line in 2025, and replacing Dalman with an inexperienced option would have introduced a clear weak point. Bradbury offered continuity, extensive starting experience and one remaining contract year. The price was modest enough that Chicago did not have to surrender an early selection to solve the problem.
New England's Return
The Patriots moved a 30-year-old veteran after one season and received a future fifth-round choice. Bradbury had started throughout New England's 2025 regular season and postseason, including Super Bowl LX, so the Patriots gave up a useful player. Still, converting a veteran with one contract year left into draft capital was sensible while opening a path for younger interior linemen.
Comparing the Value
There is not yet a full post-trade season to judge. Chicago bought short-term stability at an important position, while New England accepted near-term roster turnover for a future pick. Because the Bears paid only a Day 3 choice, the downside is limited if Bradbury proves to be a one-year bridge. The Patriots' benefit is clearer only after the 2027 selection is used.
Final Verdict
New England Patriots Win, narrowly. The Patriots receive a B-plus for extracting a fifth-round pick from a veteran entering his final contract year. Chicago receives a B-minus because the acquisition addressed an urgent need at a reasonable price, but the long-term return remains unsettled.
Bradbury supplied immediate experience at an urgent position.