Chicago Bears’ DJ Moore Trade Receiving Strong Early Reviews
Early evaluations of the Chicago Bears’ DJ Moore trade highlight the cap savings and draft capital Chicago gained in the deal with Buffalo.
The Chicago Bears made one of the most significant roster moves of the 2026 offseason when they traded wide receiver D. J. Moore to the Buffalo Bills on Thursday.
Not everyone views the deal the same way, but one major outlet believes Chicago got the better end of the deal.
According to Bleacher Report, the Bears earned a B+ grade for the trade after sending Moore and a 2026 fifth-round pick to Buffalo in exchange for a 2026 second-round selection.
The Bills earned a B-.
The evaluation reflects both the financial and roster implications of the move.
Why Bleacher Report Likes the Bears’ DJ Moore Trade
Bleacher Report’s analysis emphasized that Moore’s departure had been widely anticipated around the league.
“This trade wasn't unexpected. After his role in the Bears offense diminished as the season wore on, there was no shortage of chatter that Moore could be traded or even released outright this offseason.”
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Chicago signed Moore to a four-year contract worth $110 million in 2024. But the roster around him has changed significantly since that deal was finalized.
With young playmakers such as Luther Burden III and Rome Odunze emerging, along with tight end Colston Loveland becoming arguably the best pass-catcher on the team, Moore’s contract began to look increasingly difficult to carry on a roster facing salary cap pressure.
Cap Relief Was a Major Factor in Bears-Bills Trade
One of the biggest benefits of the trade for the Chicago Bears is salary-cap flexibility.
Bleacher Report highlighted that the move clears $16.5 million in cap space for Chicago. That type of relief can be critical during the early stages of 2026 free agency.
The Bears also secured a Day 2 draft pick, an asset that often produces starting-caliber players.
“Trading Moore clears $16.5 million off Chicago's cap, and the team was able to get a Day 2 pick by flipping a fifth-rounder to Buffalo as part of the deal.”
For general manager Ryan Poles, the combination of cap savings and draft capital makes the move easier to justify.
The Trade Creates a New Question at Wide Receiver for Bears
Even with the positive grade, Bleacher Report acknowledged one downside.
“It's a solid deal, although it does rob Chicago of some depth at the position.”
Moore had been one of Chicago’s most productive receivers since arriving in the blockbuster 2023 trade that sent the No. 1 overall pick to Carolina.
Without him, the Bears’ wide receiver room now leans heavily on Odunze and Burden to carry a larger portion of the offense.
That shift could influence Chicago’s approach in both free agency and the 2026 NFL Draft.
Why the Trade Fits the Bears' Long-Term Plan
Ultimately, the deal reflects the Chicago Bears' broader roster strategy.
Poles is focusing on building around quarterback Caleb Williams while maintaining financial flexibility and accumulating draft assets. Turning Moore’s contract into a second-round pick and additional cap space helps accomplish both objectives.
While the trade removes a proven playmaker from the offense, Bleacher Report’s B+ grade suggests the Bears positioned themselves well for the next phase of their roster build.
