Bears Insider Raises Questions About DJ Moore's Future in Chicago

Despite a strong 2025 season, the veteran wide receiver's role may be diminishing as the Bears focus on younger talent.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

NFL insider James Palmer recently suggested that star wide receiver DJ Moore may not fit into the Chicago Bears' long-term 'youth movement' plans. While Moore had a solid 2025 campaign, the connection between him and young quarterback Caleb Williams has not reached the same heights as Williams' rapport with other young receivers like Rome Odunze and Luther Burden III. With the Bears' depth at receiver and the emergence of tight end Colston Loveland, the team may decide to trade the veteran Moore and recoup assets while fully embracing the Williams-led youth era.

Why it matters

The potential trade of DJ Moore would signal a significant shift in the Bears' offensive strategy, as they look to build around their young core of talent led by quarterback Caleb Williams. This move could have major implications for the team's future and their ability to compete in the NFC.

The details

According to NFL insider James Palmer, the chemistry between Williams and Moore has not reached the same level as the connection between the young quarterback and his fellow Gen-Z targets like Rome Odunze and Luther Burden III. In the Bears' season-ending loss to the Rams in the Divisional Round, Williams heavily targeted his younger weapons and tight end Cole Kmet, while Moore's target share fluctuated. With the depth at receiver and the emergence of Loveland as a 'massive receiving threat,' the Bears may decide that Moore's trade value is too high to ignore, allowing them to recoup assets while fully leaning into the Williams-led youth era.

  • The Bears suffered a heartbreaking 20-17 overtime loss to the Los Angeles Rams in the Divisional Round on January 14, 2026.
  • The 2025 regular season saw the Bears return to the postseason with an 11-6 record.

The players

DJ Moore

A veteran wide receiver for the Chicago Bears who had a solid 2025 season, finishing with 682 yards and six touchdowns.

Caleb Williams

The 24-year-old quarterback for the Chicago Bears, who led the team to the playoffs in 2025 and is seen as the centerpiece of the franchise's youth movement.

Rome Odunze

A 23-year-old wide receiver for the Chicago Bears who has emerged as a primary target for Caleb Williams.

Luther Burden III

A 22-year-old wide receiver for the Chicago Bears who has also become a key part of the team's young offensive core.

Colston Loveland

A 21-year-old tight end for the Chicago Bears who has developed into a 'massive receiving threat' and could further diminish DJ Moore's role in the offense.

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What they’re saying

“I didn't see Caleb Williams really looking DJ Moore's way a whole bunch”

— James Palmer, NFL Insider (Scoop City)

The takeaway

The potential trade of veteran wide receiver DJ Moore would signal a significant shift in the Chicago Bears' offensive strategy, as they look to fully embrace the youth movement led by quarterback Caleb Williams. This move could have major implications for the team's future and their ability to compete in the NFC, as they look to build around their young core of talent.