The former key star player of the Patriots is officially out of the super bowl.
Given the significant historical implications, the upcoming Super Bowl LVIII appears to be a disappointing prospect for New England Patriots fans, regardless of the outcome between the Kansas City Chiefs and the San Francisco 49ers (scheduled for 6:30 p.m. ET on CBS).
Patriots supporters had a limited reason to cheer when running back Jerick McKinnon was activated by the Chiefs. However, this positive development was overshadowed by the corresponding move, placing offensive lineman Joe Thuney on injured reserve due to a pectoral injury. This decision concludes Thuney’s third season on a five-year, $80 million contract he signed with Kansas City in the spring of 2021.
Thuney, a third-round pick from the 2016 draft, suffered the injury during the Chiefs’ Divisional round victory in Buffalo, preventing his participation in the AFC title game against Baltimore. With no practice leading up to the Super Bowl in Las Vegas, Thuney is now forced to watch as Kansas City competes for his fourth championship ring.
What makes Thuney’s situation unique is that he has provided protection for both Tom Brady and Patrick Mahomes, widely regarded as the top quarterbacks of the new century. Reflecting on his extraordinary position in history, Thuney expressed gratitude for his time with the Patriots and his experience with the Chiefs, emphasizing how fortunate he feels.
Despite gaining recognition for his role in protecting elite quarterbacks, Thuney has also built a strong reputation for his individual skills. This season, he earned his second consecutive Pro Bowl nomination and received first-team All-Pro honors. Thuney, a starter in last year’s Super Bowl LVII victory against Philadelphia with Kansas City, had also been part of the Patriots’ offensive line during their triumphs in the 51st and 53rd Super Bowl editions.
