What the Future Could Look Like for a Bears Wide Receiver
Following the organization’s most successful season in a decade, the Chicago Bears have a busy offseason ahead. The entire city of Chicago fell in love with the newly nicknamed “Cardiac Bears” after multiple wins decided in the final minute. Quarterback Caleb Williams was the star of the show, producing the most impressive season by a Bears quarterback in the franchise’s more than 100-year history. He was not doing it alone, however, as he was supported by a wide variety of offensive weapons. One of the oldest veterans on this young roster is wide receiver D.J. Moore, who recorded 682 receiving yards and six touchdowns. Unfortunately for Moore, he may be headed to a new team next season and has emerged as a top trade candidate for Chicago.
Despite an impressive year that included two game-winning touchdowns against rival Green Bay, Moore statistically posted the worst season of his eight-year career. The silver lining is that Williams was able to spread the ball effectively among his targets, with wide receivers Rome Odunze and Luther Burden III, along with tight end Colston Loveland, all surpassing 600 receiving yards. The Bears appear to have a good problem on offense, with too many viable targets for Williams to choose from. In that sense, moving on from Moore could benefit Chicago more than retaining him into next season.
With four years remaining on his $110 million contract, the Bears could create significant cap flexibility by trading Moore now. Chicago’s biggest offseason target is defensive end Maxx Crosby, who has shown interest in moving on from the Las Vegas Raiders. The Bears have struggled to generate consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks in recent seasons, making pass rush their most pressing need. Fans have already drawn connections between the team’s emerging identity and Crosby’s playing style, making the pairing feel like a natural fit. Las Vegas, meanwhile, is in need of wide receiver help, opening the door for a mutually beneficial trade. Moore stands out as the most logical asset for Chicago to move in order to address both the salary cap and a major roster weakness, making him a player to watch closely as the offseason unfolds.
