Insight into Offers for Keenan Allen Beyond the Bears
Here's what emerged from the negotiations between the Chargers and Keenan Allen's camp: a trade deal with the Bears, though other teams also expressed interest in acquiring the veteran wide receiver, according to a report from ESPN.
Following swift contract discussions, the Chargers opted to trade Allen to the Bears in exchange for a fourth-round pick in the upcoming 2024 NFL Draft. However, the Bears weren't alone in pursuing Allen; the Houston Texans and New York Jets also made offers for the 32-year-old receiver.
According to ESPN, the Texans proposed a package that included a 2025 third-round pick and a pick swap, but the Chargers declined, preferring the Bears' offer. Meanwhile, Allen's former teammate Mike Williams signed with the Jets on a one-year deal worth $15 million.
Despite Allen's standout performance in the previous season, his trade value was affected by various factors, including his age and salary. With a $23 million cap hit on the final year of his contract, Allen's age and financial demands deterred some teams from engaging in trade talks.
The Chargers set a deadline of March 17 to decide on Allen's future, as he was owed a $5 million bonus on that day. Even when the Bears proposed a pay cut, Allen declined, leading the Chargers to accept the Bears' offer.
In Chicago, Allen joins a receiving corps led by DJ Moore and adds depth to their offense. Although the Bears will have to absorb Allen's $23 million cap hit, they have sufficient cap space for the current season and the opportunity to negotiate a new contract next year.
In reflecting on the trade, Bears general manager Poles expressed enthusiasm about Allen's addition, citing his compatibility with their young quarterback and the potential for their offense to excel with a balanced lineup.
Overall, despite challenges in negotiations, the Bears seized the opportunity to bolster their offense with Allen's acquisition, signaling a positive move for both the team and the player.
| POLL | ||
31 MARS | 73 ANSWERS Insight into Offers for Keenan Allen Beyond the Bears Did you expect Keenan Allen to be traded to the Bears? | ||
| Yes | 14 | 19.2 % |
| No | 59 | 80.8 % |
| List of polls | ||
