News
February 24, 2026· 2 min read
Photo: (Photo by Melissa Tamez/Icon Sportswire)
Bryan Perez
February 24, 2026 · 2 min read

The Chicago Bears are not rushing to move on from DJ Moore. At least, that's the clearest takeaway from Brad Biggs’s latest column in the Chicago Tribune.

Biggs addressed Moore’s 2026 roster outlook amid questions about his cap number and recent production.

"General manager Ryan Poles and coach Ben Johnson gave the impression they highly value what Moore brings to the locker room and field in terms of toughness, competitive level and, yes, production," Biggs wrote. "Unless the team’s stance has shifted significantly after a series of meetings at Halas Hall — or it has a pressing need for cap space that it doesn’t want to create via other means — Moore’s status seems relatively secure."

Moore's scheduled cap hit is $28.5 million in 2026. He turns 29 in April. Those two facts alone invite trade speculation.

DJ Moore Chicago Bears
(Photo by Melissa Tamez/Icon Sportswire)

Biggs noted that Moore’s dip in production during two seasons alongside Caleb Williams does not enhance his trade value. Teams around the league will weigh age, contract, and recent output before making any aggressive offer; it's an equation that will apply to any potential Moore deal.

MORE: PFF 3-Round 2026 Mock Draft Bolsters Chicago Bears’ Defense at 3 Key Spots

Some critics question Moore’s fit in 2026. However, Biggs dismisses the idea that the Bears have soured on the veteran wideout. It's quite the opposite, actually.

Unless the Bears reverse course after internal meetings at Halas Hall, Moore’s roster spot appears just as safe now as it did at the start of the 2025 season. Biggs emphasized that Chicago would need a pressing cap reason to make a move. However, the team could create financial flexibility through restructures or other adjustments instead.

Poles must carefully evaluate the Chicago Bears' long-term roster construction. Cutting or trading Moore would clear cap space but remove a proven weapon. It would also leave Williams without an established veteran target.

Sure, 2025 draft hits Colston Loveland and Luther Burden, and 2024 first-round pick Rome Odunze appear primed for massive breakouts in 2026. But having a veteran like Moore is a huge asset. Especially in critical moments.

For now, momentum favors the Bears running it back in 2026.

Biggs’ reporting suggests the Bears do not view Moore as expendable. They view him as part of the foundation. That distinction shapes the entire conversation.

Chicago may adjust the contract structure if needed. A complete departure, however, appears unlikely barring a dramatic shift.

The Bears want to contend for a Super Bowl in 2026. Removing a respected veteran playmaker would send the opposite message.


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Bryan Perez
Bryan PerezManaging Editor at BearsTalk

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