Deciding when to part ways with a star player can be a daunting challenge for any NFL front office, especially for a franchise like the Chicago Bears. A premature trade could create a public relations headache, but in some instances, moving on could be the best route to maintain financial flexibility and rebuild for the future.
Currently, the spotlight is on wide receiver D.J. Moore, who has established himself as a key player for the Bears, especially after his impressive debut season last year that saw him rack up 1,364 receiving yards. Moore’s future in Chicago has now come into question, particularly in light of a sizable four-year, $110 million extension signed last July, securing his presence with the team through at least the 2027 season—unless, of course, a trade comes into play.
Recent discussions have brought the Denver Broncos into the mix, with some analysts suggesting Moore could be a target should they seek a new number-one receiver. Courtland Sutton, a current standout for Denver, is slated to hit free agency next spring, leading to speculation about the Broncos’ interest in bringing aboard a top-tier talent like Moore.
As it stands, Moore’s base salary for this season is set at $20.6 million, jumping to $23.4 million annually in the ensuing four years. This financial commitment might have the Bears weighing their options, especially with promising second-year receiver Rome Odunze showcasing potential as the team’s primary target. The hypothesis is that swapping Moore could free up additional funds to pursue talent in other areas, perhaps even bringing in a premier defender like Trey Hendrickson from the Bengals.
While it may seem unexpected for the Bears to consider trading away a player of Moore’s caliber, the operational landscape of the NFL is ever-changing. With the right draft picks potentially in play from an interested team like the Broncos, Chicago would be prudent to entertain offers. This is a scenario filled with complexities, and while there’s no urgency, the Bears find themselves at a crucial juncture that could either deepen their roster or reshape their financial approach for the future. It’s a decision that won’t come lightly, but it’s definitely one that the Bears should keep on their radar.
