Chicago Bears Acquire Keenan Allen from Los Angeles Chargers in Blockbuster Trade

Chicago has executed a significant trade, surprising many within the NFL community. The Bears have finalized a deal to bring Pro Bowl wide receiver Keenan Allen from the Los Angeles Chargers.

The trade involves the Bears sending a 2024 fourth-round pick (No. 110 overall) to the Chargers in exchange for Allen, as reported by Ian Rapoport of NFL Network and first revealed by FOX’s Jay Glazer.

Amid ongoing speculation surrounding quarterback Justin Herbert and the upcoming 2024 NFL Draft, the Bears have added a six-time Pro Bowl receiver in Allen, who declined a request from the Chargers to take a pay cut, according to Rapoport.

Los Angeles had a substantial salary cap hit with Allen’s current contract, along with key players like Justin Herbert, Joey Bosa, and Khalil Mack on their roster. In order to retain those players, the Chargers made tough roster decisions, leading to the trade of Allen after 11 seasons with the team.

With ample cap space of $56.3 million, Chicago is expected to work through the financial implications of Allen’s contract. The wideout, who will turn 32 in April, is coming off a remarkable season where he recorded 108 receptions for 1,243 yards and seven touchdowns.

Pairing Allen with D.J. Moore on the field could significantly enhance the Bears’ offense, regardless of who ends up throwing passes – whether it’s Fields or the top pick in the 2024 NFL Draft.

Bears general manager Ryan Poles expressed excitement about the acquisition, stating, “We’re extremely excited to add Keenan to our team. His body of work speaks for itself, and we look forward to him elevating our offense.”

For the Chargers, Allen’s departure marks the end of a significant era for the franchise. His impressive stats place him second all-time in receptions and yards, behind only Antonio Gates.

Reflecting on Allen’s impact, Chargers president of football operations John Spanos mentioned, “Keenan’s impact lives in the hearts of our fans, in the communities which he has served, and amongst his teammates.” The Chargers expressed deep gratitude for Allen’s contributions both on and off the field.

As Allen transitions from L.A. to Chicago, both teams find themselves navigating transformative changes within their organizations.