DJ Moore Trade Increasingly Likely for Chicago Bears in 2026 Offseason
Photo: (Photo by Melissa Tamez/Icon Sportswire)
News

DJ Moore Trade Increasingly Likely for Chicago Bears in 2026 Offseason

A growing belief around the league suggests the Chicago Bears could trade DJ Moore during the 2026 NFL offseason as cap pressure and roster priorities reshape the offense.

Bryan PerezBryan Perez·

The Chicago Bears may be approaching a major offseason decision involving one of their most recognizable offensive players.

According to longtime Chicago Tribune insider Brad Biggs, there is a legitimate chance that DJ Moore is traded during the 2026 NFL offseason.

Biggs recently suggested the odds could actually favor a move.

"Chances are better than not,” Biggs said during an interview with WSCR 670 The Score when discussing whether Chicago could move Moore before the 2026 season.

The comment quickly amplified an offseason storyline that has been quietly building around the Bears since the end of the 2025 campaign.

Why a DJ Moore Trade Is Being Discussed

Moore has been a key piece of Chicago’s offense since arriving in the blockbuster trade that sent the No. 1 overall pick to the Carolina Panthers in 2023.

However, several factors have pushed his long-term future into the spotlight.

One moment that fueled speculation came during Chicago’s playoff loss to the Los Angeles Rams in the NFC Divisional Round. Moore’s effort on the Bears’ final offensive play of the season became a talking point among analysts and fans, raising questions about whether he remains a long-term cornerstone.

Contract dynamics also play a role. Moore will carry a $28.5 million cap hit in 2026, a number that becomes significant for a team navigating multiple roster priorities.

MORE: Chicago Bears Linked to Tyler Biadasz After Drew Dalman Retirement

Production trends have added to the conversation as well. While Moore remains a talented route runner and proven playmaker, the Bears must evaluate whether his financial commitment aligns with their broader roster strategy.

Ben Johnson Highlighted DJ Moore’s Value

Despite the speculation, Bears head coach Ben Johnson publicly praised Moore during the 2026 NFL Combine.

Johnson pointed to Moore’s versatility and reliability as reasons the veteran receiver remains important to the offense.

“He probably knew all the roles of the receivers better than anybody else we had in that room,” Johnson said. “The X, the Z, F — it really didn’t matter. He was a guy we knew we could count on.”

Johnson also highlighted Moore’s durability and intelligence within the offense, two traits that often elevate a receiver’s value beyond raw statistics.

Those comments illustrate the tension surrounding Moore’s situation: the Bears clearly recognize his talent, but roster construction sometimes forces difficult decisions.

Why the Bears Could Still Explore a DJ Moore Trade

The 2026 offseason presents Chicago with several roster challenges.

The Bears must address the center position after the retirement of Drew Dalman. They have to reinforce the pass rush. And they might have to rebuild parts of the secondary with veterans such as Kevin Byard and Jaquan Brisker approaching free agency.

Creating financial flexibility may become part of that process.

General manager Ryan Poles has historically prioritized disciplined roster building, often weighing long-term structure over short-term sentiment.

A trade involving Moore could potentially generate draft capital or help facilitate a larger move, including the widely discussed possibility of pursuing Maxx Crosby in a blockbuster deal.

What Happens Next for Bears, DJ Moore

At this stage, no trade appears imminent. Moore remains under contract and is viewed as a capable starting receiver.

Still, when a well-connected reporter like Brad Biggs suggests the chances of a trade are better than not, it signals that league conversations around Moore’s future are real.

With free agency approaching and several roster needs emerging, the Chicago Bears may soon have to decide whether DJ Moore remains part of their long-term plan. If not, he'll become one of the most notable trade chips of the 2026 offseason.


Tags:Featured
Bryan Perez
Bryan PerezStaff Writer at BearsTalk

More From BearsTalk

Latest Mock Drafts

  • Loading mock drafts…
All Mock Drafts →