The Chicago Bears have secured the future of their star wideout DJ Moore with a lucrative contract extension. The extension is worth four years, $110 million, with $82.6 million guaranteed. Jonathan Jones of CBS Sports confirmed the deal via X/Twitter.
With his new extension, DJ Moore becomes the first receiver in NFL history to have his first ten contract years guaranteed, per ESPN’s Adam Schefter. The deal is also the largest extension in Bears history.
Moore joined the Bears in a trade from the Carolina Panthers before the 2023 season. He quickly established himself as a cornerstone for Chicago. Moore connected with then-quarterback Justin Fields. Now, he looks to build a similar chemistry with 2024 No. 1 draft pick and quarterback Caleb Williams.
DJ Moore has made an immediate impact on the Bears.
Before getting traded, the Panthers signed Moore to an extension and moved into a new house. Still, he got traded to the Bears.
“When I first got the call, I was like, ‘Ah s—‘…I was coming down the driveway, got the phone call. ‘Yeah, you’ve been traded,'” Moore said, per Ari Meirov of The 33rd Team. “[Bears general manager Ryan] Poles called me ‘Hey, we’re glad to have you.’ So, that changed my whole mindset.”
And he changed his mindset indeed, as since Joining the Bears Moore has been a revelation on the field. In the 2023 season, he recorded a career-high in all categories with 96 receptions, 1,364 yards, and eight touchdowns.
Moore recorded multiple 100-plus yard games during the season. His best performance came in a Week 5 win over the Washington Commanders. Moore recorded eight receptions for 230 yards and three touchdowns. His 230 receiving yards were the most allowed by the Washington franchise since 1966.
Since then, Moore has become a Chicago fan favorite. His speed, route-running precision, and ability to make critical catches were highlights of the Chicago offense.
DJ Moore emerged into greatness back in college.
Before Moore wowed the Monsters of the Midway fanbase and dazzled in Carolina, he was a star at the University of Maryland. As a Terrapin, Moore broke out during his junior year with 80 catches, 1,033 receiving yards, and nine total touchdowns.
Moore emerged as the first wide receiver selected in the 2018 NFL Draft, 24th overall in the first round. He validated his selection with his play on the field. His 460 receptions and 6,565 receiving yards are the most by any player from the 2018 draft class.
Looking Ahead
The Bears can now focus on building around the combination of Moore and Williams. During the offseason, Chicago added veteran Keenan Allen in a trade and rookie Rome Odunze to their receiver room. the B
Moore provides stability that will be crucial as Chicago aims to return to the postseason after four mediocre seasons. The potential of Caleb Williams and DJ Moore, two DMV legends, is a beacon of hope for Bears fans, who are eager for the team to return to its winning ways.
