The Chicago Bears made a significant move in the NFL trade market by acquiring star wide receiver Keenan Allen from the Los Angeles Chargers. This trade has both teams facing different scenarios, with the Bears adding a talented veteran to their roster and the Chargers dealing with cap constraints.
Why the Bears made the move
The Bears have been actively seeking to add experienced talent to their team, and their strong finish to the previous season indicates that they are making good decisions in this regard. Keenan Allen, despite turning 32 soon, is still one of the most productive receivers in the league. He recorded a career-high 108 receptions in just 13 games, showing his ability to be both a possession-style receiver and a big-play threat. With quarterback Caleb Williams expected to be the No. 1 pick, Allen will be a valuable asset for the Bears’ offense alongside wideout D.J. Moore and tight ends Cole Kmet and Gerald Everett.
The Chargers’ cap crunch
On the other side of the trade, the Chargers have been facing significant cap constraints. To recalibrate their books, they restructured contracts for Khalil Mack and Joey Bosa and released wide receiver Mike Williams. Trading Allen was another move aimed at creating cap space, saving them $23.1 million. Although a fourth-round draft pick may not fully replace Allen’s value, it is a better return than what they could have received.
Trade grade (Bears): A
This trade is considered a great move for the Bears. Since 2017, Allen ranks high in receptions, yards, and touchdown receptions in the NFL. He brings stability and playmaking abilities to the team, which will greatly benefit a young quarterback like Williams. The Bears’ new offensive coordinator, Shane Waldron, must be thrilled to have such talented playmakers at his disposal.
Concerns about Allen’s injuries
It is worth noting that Allen has had injury issues throughout his career. He has not played a full season since 2019 and has missed multiple games in three of the last four seasons. However, when he is on the field, he consistently makes an impact, which is exactly what the Bears need.
Trade grade (Chargers): C-minus
From a business perspective, the Chargers made the trade to alleviate cap constraints. Although it may sting to lose a talented player like Allen, it was a necessary move. The fourth-round pick they received is a fair return considering the circumstances.
Impact on quarterback Justin Herbert and the Chargers
The trade leaves quarterback Justin Herbert with a lot of changes to adjust to. He signed a lucrative contract last year and now faces a new regime under coach Jim Harbaugh and general manager Joe Hortiz. Additionally, he has lost key offensive players like Allen, Williams, Everett, and Austin Ekeler. These four players accounted for over half of the Chargers’ yards from scrimmage in the past two seasons. It remains to be seen if the Chargers’ roster changes will have a positive or negative impact on Herbert’s performance.
Looking ahead
Moving forward, it will be interesting to see how the Chargers navigate their cap constraints and fill the void left by Allen. They may rely on Herbert’s abilities to elevate younger receivers like Josh Palmer and Quentin Johnston. Additionally, the team holds the fifth pick in the draft, which could be used to select an elite wideout. Ultimately, the success of this trade will depend on how well the Chargers can adapt without Allen.
In conclusion, the trade involving Keenan Allen has significant implications for both the Bears and the Chargers. The Bears strengthen their offense with a proven playmaker, while the Chargers make necessary moves to manage their cap space. Only time will tell if this trade proves successful for both teams.