Rumor: Prominent Bears Offensive Star May Be on the Trading Block, Says NFL Insider
Ahead of this offseason, the Bears were in the hunt for a standout No. 1 wide receiver. They secured one in former Panthers sensation D.J. Moore, trading Carolina the first overall pick (which they used to select Bryce Young) in exchange for the three-time 1,000-yard receiver. Given this new acquisition, might the Bears consider trading Darnell Mooney, a fourth-year wide receiver coming off a lackluster 2022 season?
Brad Spielberger of Pro Football Focus flagged Mooney as a possible unexpected trade asset as Tuesday's 53-man roster deadline looms: "Although it would shock many if the Bears were actually considering trading Mooney, it might not be too surprising if Mooney himself were open to a fresh start. Particularly frustrated over stalled contract extension talks this offseason. With the arrival of D.J. Moore and Chase Claypool, Mooney has been relegated from being the primary receiver in 2022. Given that the Bears had the worst passing stats last year, Mooney might be looking for more action, especially as he's in a crucial contract year."
Mooney and quarterback Justin Fields have a tight-knit relationship, and improvements are expected for 2023. However, Mooney might not be willing to stick around without a new contract, especially after an ankle injury cut his 2022 season short.
In 2021, Mooney had a standout season with 81 receptions for 1,055 yards and four touchdowns. However, last season, he managed only 40 catches for 493 yards and two touchdowns across 12 games.
As Mooney, who is soon to be 26, approaches the final year of his contract, he could catch the eye of various teams looking to strengthen their receiving corps. Mooney has the potential to return to his 2021 form given the right circumstances.
If Mooney's 2023 performance continues to be erratic, the Bears should at least entertain the notion of trading him to avoid potentially losing him without compensation in 2024's free agency.
| POLL | ||
30 AOUT | 93 ANSWERS Rumor: Prominent Bears Offensive Star May Be on the Trading Block, Says NFL Insider Should the bears trade Darnell Mooney? | ||
| Yes | 23 | 24.7 % |
| No | 70 | 75.3 % |
| List of polls | ||
