ROUND 1 PICK AND SUPER BOWL PILLAR SENDS EMOTIONAL FAREWELL TO PATRIOTS AFTER BEST SEASON OF HIS CAREER

FOXBOROUGH, Massachusetts — A new chapter is beginning for veteran center Garrett Bradbury, but not before he left New England with a heartfelt message that resonated deeply with Patriots fans. After playing a key role in the team’s Super Bowl run, the former first-round draft pick is heading to Chicago in a trade that signals change for both franchises.

The Chicago Bears have agreed to acquire Bradbury from the New England Patriots in exchange for a 2027 fifth-round pick. The deal, first reported by ESPN, will become official when the new NFL league year begins on Wednesday. Chicago moved quickly after center Drew Dalman unexpectedly retired at age 27 over long-term health concerns.

Bradbury, now 30, delivered one of the most stable seasons of his career in 2025. Starting all 17 regular-season games, he anchored a Patriots offensive line that helped power the team to a Super Bowl appearance. His reliability and leadership became especially important as he stepped into the role once held by longtime captain David Andrews.

The veteran center originally joined New England on March 18–19, 2025, signing a two-year free-agent contract worth up to $12 million, including $3.8 million guaranteed. After being released by the Minnesota Vikings, Bradbury arrived in Foxborough determined to prove he still belonged among the league’s most dependable offensive linemen.

During the 2025 season and the playoff run leading to Super Bowl LX, Bradbury quietly became one of the Patriots’ most consistent performers. His chemistry with the offensive line unit and his ability to read defensive fronts helped stabilize the protection schemes that allowed New England’s offense to operate with confidence.

“New England welcomed me when I needed a new home in this league, and this season with the Patriots will always stay close to my heart. Every snap, every locker-room moment, every roar from the fans meant everything to me. Thank you for believing in me and making Foxborough feel like family.”

While the trade marks the end of his brief but meaningful tenure with the Patriots, Bradbury leaves with respect across the organization and the fan base. As he prepares to begin the next chapter with the Chicago Bears, New England supporters are already sending their gratitude — and their best wishes — for the road ahead.