The NFL is well into the new league year, and a flurry of trades and signings has announced its return. The Chicago Bears have so far participated in blockbuster trades, under-the-radar signings, and even a surprise retirement. Undeniably, one of the largest moves the Bears have been involved in sent DJ Moore to Buffalo in exchange for a 2026 second-round pick.
Though the Bears have multiple receivers on their roster who many could consider primed to be the top wide receiver in Chicago, one could argue that, with Moore's departure, they're lacking experience and potentially leadership. Moore had eight years of NFL experience, and his veteran presence will surely be missed.
Receivers need structure, not just opportunity
At present, Deebo Samuel remains a free agent. The former 49er and, most recently, a Washington Commander just completed his seventh season in the NFL, and his navigation could be a massive asset for the young players the Bears view as their future. Samuel's skill set would surely add an entire extra layer to head coach Ben Johnson's offensive schemes.
Though he turned 30 in January, Samuel comes at a premium. Spotrac projects his market value to fall just shy of $16 million per year. For those of you who don't know, the Bears are pretty strapped for cash. But in 2026, not only are these general managers and front offices extremely adept at making money appear from thin air, but current contracts can be reworked to the team's benefit. This could suggest that if the Bears do entertain this option, it would likely be only for a one- or two-year deal.
Rome Odunze and Luther Burden III are set to be the future of the Bears' wide receiver core. Odunze and star quarterback Caleb Williams were drafted together, and the Bears have developed them together. Their chemistry with the ball is evident. Burden arrived a year later, but tracking his targets for the season clearly shows Williams' trust in him is building.
Odunze has had a couple of injuries, and Burden is still very young. Though both of these young players are extremely talented, they're not quite ready to take up the mantle of WR1. Picking up an experienced dual-threat option like Samuel simultaneously provides receiver depth, solves the experience problem, and adds a significant weapon to Ben Johnson's playbook. It's a decent match.
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The Bears don’t need Deebo Samuel to redefine their offense; they need him to stabilize it while their future develops. If the goal is to maximize Caleb Williams and bring Rome Odunze and Luther Burden III along the right way, this is exactly the type of short-term move that makes sense.