The Chicago Bears have executed a series of astute moves over the last two offseasons, with one standout being the acquisition of a top-tier skill position player at a bargain price.
General manager Ryan Poles orchestrated a trade that involved swapping the No. 1 overall pick in the 2023 draft with the Carolina Panthers, resulting in a package of assets that included the top selection in 2024. This pick was used to draft quarterback Caleb Williams, considered a potential generational talent. Equally significant was the retention of wide receiver DJ Moore as part of the trade deal.
Moore signed a three-year contract valued at $61.9 million, averaging just over $20.6 million annually, which extends through the 2025 season. He justified the Bears’ investment by posting career-high numbers in receptions (96), receiving yards (1,364), and touchdowns (8) during the 2023 season.
According to Alex Kay of Bleacher Report, Moore’s contract ranks as the fourth-most team-friendly deal in the NFL heading into the upcoming season, considering his impressive production despite often playing alongside inexperienced or struggling quarterbacks throughout his career.
Looking ahead, Moore’s statistics could potentially be influenced by the addition of Keenan Allen and Rome Odunze to the Bears’ roster. Allen, a six-time Pro Bowler acquired via trade from the Los Angeles Chargers, brings a strong track record but also a history of occasional injuries that may impact his availability. Meanwhile, Odunze, drafted ninth overall in 2024 after a stellar collegiate season, adds youthful talent and depth to Chicago’s receiving corps.
Bill Barnwell of ESPN ranks the Bears’ overall group of skill players, including receivers, running backs, and tight ends, as the sixth-best in the NFL for the 2024 season. He highlights the potential synergy among Moore, Allen, and Odunze, suggesting they could form one of the league’s most formidable wide receiver trios, particularly aiding a rookie quarterback like Williams.
Looking further ahead, Moore’s future financial prospects with the Bears remain intriguing. Despite potential challenges posed by upcoming investments in pass rushers and offensive line improvements, Moore’s continued production trajectory suggests he may command a significant raise when his contract expires after the 2025 campaign.
While Moore may not reach the stratospheric earnings of recent top wide receiver deals, such as those received by Justin Jefferson and Amon-Ra St. Brown, Kay speculates that a new deal for Moore could position him among the top earners at his position, starting negotiations with an annual average value (AAV) of at least $25 million.
In summary, the Bears’ strategic moves have positioned them well to capitalize on Moore’s talents while navigating future roster challenges, ensuring his pivotal role in the team’s offensive aspirations.