One of the biggest moves that the Chicago Bears made during the 2024 offseason, outside of drafting Caleb Williams and Rome Odunze, was trading a fourth-round pick to the Los Angeles Chargers for wide receiver Keenan Allen.
The trade didn't quite play out the way the Bears were hoping. Allen battled a toe injury throughout the season, and at times, it seemed to be the main reason why he wasn't a focal point of the Bears' offense. Still, in terms of the eye test, it was clear that Allen was the only wide receiver on the Bears' roster last season with whom Caleb Williams had a true connection. Allen finished the 2024 season with 744 receiving yards and 7 touchdowns on 70 receptions. Speaking to his inconsistencies, Allen was targeted 121 times during the 2024 season.
After the trade with the Chargers was first completed, there was speculation that the Bears would look to sign Allen to a contract extension. However, once the season started without a new deal between the Bears and the veteran wide receiver, it seemed clear that Allen's time with the Bears would be one-and-done.
While there was initial speculation at the start of free agency that Allen would be returning to the Los Angeles Chargers, the veteran wide receiver is still looking for a home.
The moves the Bears have made this offseason have all but confirmed there won't be a reunion with Allen. Odunze will likely take Allen's role in the Bears' offense, and the Bears added Luther Burden III in the second round of the draft. There isn't space for Allen on the Bears' roster.
Keenan Allen is still looking for a team to play for in 2025
As Allen remains on the free-agent market, ESPN lists him as a potential fit for the Arizona Cardinals. The Cardinals are among the teams that make the most sense to add Allen, given he gives Kyler Murray an extra security blanket in their offense. However, if we're being honest, can't say the Bears will miss Allen all that much.