Chicago Bears wideout DJ Moore has become a focal point of trade rumors as his role in the offense continues to shrink this season. With the NFL trade deadline less than a month away, his situation is raising serious questions about the team’s direction. According to Da Windy City, rookie Rome Odunze has now surpassed Moore in targets.
Declining Production Sparks Concern
Moore’s usage has dropped off noticeably, he’s been targeted only 28 times through six games, while rookie Rome Odunze has drawn 40 looks over the same stretch. It marks a sharp decline for the veteran receiver, whose production has also taken a hit.
So far, Moore has just 19 receptions for 215 yards and a single touchdown, failing to top 46 receiving yards in any game since the opener. A recent groin injury, which head coach Ben Johnson described as minor, has only added to his recent struggles.
Contract and Roster Dynamics
Moore’s hefty contract only complicates his shrinking role. He inked a four-year, $110 million extension in July 2024, with $81 million guaranteed and an annual cap hit of at least $24 million. According to Forbes, that financial commitment is tough to defend given his current production.
General Manager Ryan Poles is now facing a tough decision, especially since head coach Ben Johnson wasn’t the one who signed off on Moore’s extension. That front-office dynamic could play a key role in determining whether a trade happens.
A New Offensive Hierarchy
Rookie Rome Odunze has quickly become quarterback Caleb Williams’ go-to option, effectively taking over as the Bears’ top receiver. His blend of consistency and explosiveness has solidified his central role in the offense.
Even depth receivers are matching Moore’s involvement, Olamide Zaccheaus has drawn an equal number of targets this season, suggesting the scheme has moved on without Moore.
Though head coach Ben Johnson has said he wants to get Moore more involved, the play-calling tells a different story. Moore’s average target depth has dropped to 7.6 yards from 10.9 last year, signaling a clear shift in how he’s being used.
The trade buzz surrounding Moore underscores a difficult situation for Chicago. His massive contract paired with his diminished role presents a major roster dilemma, and a deal before the deadline is starting to look increasingly realistic.
Source: ZoomBangLa.Com
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