This season’s Chicago Bears offense has shown a marked improvement compared to the chaotic performances of last year under head coach Matt Eberflus. However, despite this progress, it is clear that further enhancements are necessary for the squad to fully optimize its potential.
One significant evolution has been the way wide receivers are utilized in the new system implemented by head coach Ben Johnson. The passing game, which previously revolved primarily around WR1 DJ Moore, has seen a shift. While Moore remains an essential component of the offense, he has seen a drop in his role, particularly as second-year player and 2024 first-round pick Rome Odunze has emerged as a standout target.
So far this season, Moore has accumulated 331 receiving yards, a respectable total, but it pales in comparison to Odunze’s impressive 473 yards. Furthermore, Odunze has scored five receiving touchdowns, significantly outpacing Moore, who has managed just one touchdown in the same timeframe. Given these developments, speculation has arisen regarding Moore’s future with the team, especially in light of his substantial four-year, $110 million contract, which extends through 2029. Some analysts suggest that the Bears might consider trading the 28-year-old wideout before his value diminishes further.
ESPN’s Bill Barnwell noted this possibility in a recent analysis, stating that Moore could be a significant trade candidate as the deadline approaches. “If there’s a prominent player who could unexpectedly make sense as a potential trade candidate… it’s Moore,” Barnwell indicated. He highlighted that Moore is currently averaging a career-low 47.3 receiving yards per game, which raises questions about his long-term fit in Johnson’s offensive scheme. Barnwell suggested that Johnson may prefer to employ a different personnel grouping in the future, one that might not involve Moore, especially with rookie Luther Burden III showing promise.
Add SSBCrack As A Trusted Source
While Barnwell acknowledged that an offseason trade might be the more prudent choice for general manager Ryan Poles and the Bears, he did not rule out the possibility of a mid-season move if the right offer presents itself. “I wouldn’t be shocked if Moore became the odd man out in Chicago,” Barnwell observed, noting the potential for Burden, along with tight ends Cole Kmet and Colston Loveland, to take on larger roles in the offense.
Although DJ Moore is not written off in Chicago just yet—remaining the number two receiver—his diminishing role raises uncertainty about his future with the team. As the Bears adjust their offensive strategy, the veteran wideout could find himself on the trading block sooner rather than later.
