Chicago has executed a move that is a blockbuster, but not the one that many had anticipated.
NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport revealed on Thursday night that the Bears are acquiring Pro Bowl wide receiver Keenan Allen from the Chargers in exchange for a 2024 fourth-round choice (No. 110 overall).
The revelation was initially reported by FOX’s Jay Glazer.
While everyone in Chi-Town and the NFL knows exactly what will happen with quarterback Justin Fields and the team’s first-round selection in the 2024 NFL Draft, the Bears have added wide receiver Allen, a six-time Pro Bowler who turned down a pay cut offer from the Chargers, according to Rapoport.
Allen’s current deal came with a $34.7 million salary cap charge for the Chargers. Along with pass rushers Khalil Mack and Joey Bosa, wide receiver Mike Williams, and this one, it was one of four cap hits totaling more over $30 million. In order to keep Bosa and Mack, Los Angeles modified their contracts on Thursday after releasing Williams on Wednesday.
After 11 seasons with the Bolts, Allen is suddenly being traded—a move he didn’t see happening as recently as February when he made his most recent Pro Bowl trip—due to his apparent unwillingness to compromise on his salary.
According to Over the Cap, Chicago has plenty of cap space with $56.3 million available, but it seems doubtful that some math work won’t be required. With a base salary of $18.1 million, Allen, who turns 32 in April, is entering the last year of a four-year, $80 million deal. Additionally, he just had one of the most successful seasons of his illustrious career, hauling in a career-high 108 catches for 1,243 yards and seven touchdowns.
On paper, Allen and field stretcher D.J. Moore should make a fantastic pairing. It’s unclear whether he’s receiving passes from Fields or maybe Caleb Williams, who is predicted by most to choose the first selection in the draft.
According to a statement released by Bears general manager Ryan Poles, “We’re extremely excited to add Keenan to our team.” “His body of work speaks for itself and we look forward to him elevating our offense.”
It marks the end of a significant period in Chargers history.
With 904 receptions and 10,530 yards, Allen is second only to Antonio Gates. The two Chargers players are the only ones to surpass 900 receptions and 10,000 yards. In the history of the team, his 59 touchdowns rank third.
“It is insufficient to put into words what Keenan Allen has meant to the Chargers for over ten years,” said Chargers President of Football Operations John Spanos in a statement. “Keenan’s influence endures in the hearts of our supporters, the places he has volunteered in, and the many teammates he has forged brotherhoods with. We are very grateful to Keenan Allen for his contributions to our organization, both on and off the field. There will only be one Keenan Allen.”
Allen is now traveling from Los Angeles to the Windy City as part of a story about two teams experiencing historic shifts inside their own hallways.
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