"Bears general manager Ryan Poles managed to turn a difficult situation into a shockingly favorable return here. To understand how the Bears got here, go back to the summer of 2024. With Moore coming off a 1,364-yard season and two years to go on his existing deal, it's reasonable to understand why Poles would want to lock in his No. 1 receiver for then-rookie quarterback Caleb Williams over the long term."
"Coach Ben Johnson never really seemed to have any desire to build his offense around Moore as the focal point of the passing attack. Moore made big plays, with the touchdown catch in overtime to beat the Packers as the most notable example, but his target share and route efficiency stats were way down from where they had been two years earlier."
The NFL trade market saw notable moves this week, including the Bears trading DJ Moore to the Bills for a 2026 second-round pick. Bears GM Ryan Poles secured a favorable return despite Moore's substantial contract extension signed in summer 2024 worth $110 million over four years at $27.5 million annually. Coach Ben Johnson's offensive scheme didn't prioritize Moore as the focal point, with his target share and route efficiency declining from previous seasons. Moore's limited blocking ability conflicted with Johnson's offensive philosophy. The trade reflects the Bears' shift from asset accumulation around Williams to addressing financial constraints, while the Bills acquired a receiver option for Josh Allen and the Chiefs traded away a top defensive back despite championship aspirations.
Read at ESPN.com
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