The Chicago Bears are at a crossroads with veteran wide receiver DJ Moore. After a challenging 2025 season, Moore's future with the team seems uncertain. Once the Bears' top target, Moore's production dipped to career lows of 50 catches and 682 yards, as he found himself overshadowed by rising stars Rome Odunze and Luther Burden III.
Recent reports suggest that Moore's time in Chicago might be nearing its end. NFL insider Jordan Schultz revealed that the Bears are fielding calls about Moore, indicating he's available for the right offer in the wide receiver market. As the new league year looms on March 11, the likelihood of Moore staying in Chicago appears to be dwindling.
Looking back, Moore's tenure with the Bears has had its highlights. Over three seasons, he amassed 244 receptions, 3,012 yards, and 20 touchdowns.
Acquired in a pivotal trade with Carolina that secured the Bears the No. 1 overall pick in 2024, Moore initially made a significant impact, especially in 2023 with 96 catches for 1,364 yards and eight touchdowns. However, his numbers have since declined.
The drop in Moore's performance is puzzling, especially with the Bears hiring offensive-minded head coach Ben Johnson last year. Yet, Odunze and Burden emerged as key playmakers, with Odunze tallying 44 catches for 661 yards and six touchdowns, while Burden notched 47 catches for 652 yards and two touchdowns in his rookie season.
Financial considerations also play a role in Moore's potential departure. His hefty contract, with a $28.5 million cap hit over the next two seasons, complicates matters. Any team interested in trading for Moore would likely need to commit to a long-term deal, as his guaranteed money expires after the next season.
Bears GM Ryan Poles has hinted that moving Moore might be in the team's best interest. At the NFL Scouting Combine, Poles emphasized the need to explore all options to build the strongest possible team. Trading Moore could clear $16.5 million in cap space and potentially yield a valuable draft pick.
Teams like the Las Vegas Raiders, Buffalo Bills, and Tennessee Titans could be potential suitors. The Bears might even consider absorbing some of Moore's contract to secure a better draft pick in return.
As the Bears aim to elevate their performance, Moore's future hangs in the balance, and it seems his chapter in Chicago may soon close.