Ryan Poles’ Next Extension Priority For Bears Is A Slight Surprise
The Chicago Bears resolved any major contract extension issues they had going into this off-season. Montez Sweat got his new deal shortly after the Bears traded for him. Then, GM Ryan Poles fulfilled his promise by securing All-Pro cornerback Jaylon Johnson to a massive contract as well. As things stand, Keenan Allen is the only player with a notable situation to monitor. The six-time Pro Bowler is a free agent in 2025 and had hoped to land an extension in Los Angeles before they traded him. Both sides seem open to a long-term partnership, but it was made pretty clear no such discussions will happen before the season.
That isn’t a surprise. Allen turns 32 this year. He missed multiple games last season with injuries. The Bears want to see how he does this season. If he plays at his customary level and stays relatively healthy, they will approach him about an extension at some point. However, another name may sit at the top of Poles’ priority list. It isn’t who fans would immediately think of. According to Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribune, the name to watch is D.J. Moore.
I don’t envision general manager Ryan Poles rushing into anything with Allen, especially with Rome Odunze on board. Jenkins has a lot to prove this season, and that could be a really good thing for him if he maximizes his opportunities, considering how the market for interior linemen has taken off.
The next veteran contract could be for wide receiver DJ Moore. That’s not so much a prediction as it is a little something to look out for. Moore is under contract through 2025, but my guess is the Bears at least would be interested in entertaining where things stand beyond that. It always takes two parties to be interested in getting something done, but I could envision Moore being paid before Jenkins and certainly before Allen — if Allen is extended.
This move by Ryan Poles isn’t entirely surprising.
He is big on rewarding players for great seasons. Moore just had the best of his career, topping 1300 yards. He is only 27 years old and is under contract through 2025. It makes sense the Bears would want to get negotiations started on an extension. For one, Moore has earned it. For another, the longer they wait, the more the price is likely to go up. Wide receiver contracts get more expensive every year. Smart teams work to get their top players locked down before the market explodes again.
It will be interesting to see if Moore is open to getting an extension done now or if he wants to wait. He may wish to stack another great year, giving himself increased leverage in negotiations. On the other hand, there is a chance the more crowded Bears receiving room with Allen and Rome Odunze could eat into his target share. Inking a new deal now might be in his best interests. It depends on how determined Ryan Poles is to make it happen. Nobody would be upset about such an outcome.