With the start of the offseason, every team is busy doing all they can to either improve their squad or make room for new players. But among them, the Chicago Bears’ recent acquisition of Los Angeles Chargers wide receiver Kennan Allen startled everyone.
At the same time as the Chargers’ decision to release the wide receiver sparked speculation, the player disclosed that he would like to end his career with the Chargers.
Keenan Allen traded by Los Angeles chargers to Chicago Bears
The Bears made a significant move to bolster their offense by acquiring wide receiver Keenan Allen from the Los Angeles Chargers in exchange for a fourth-round pick.
According to ESPN, Chargers management approached the receiver and asked him to accept a pay cut. Given his 11th season in the league and his remarkable productivity, it’s understandable that Allen declined. This led to the Chargers opting to trade him to Chicago, providing the Bears with a standout six-time Pro Bowl receiver.
Meanwhile, after acquiring him, the Bears team’s happiness is on full display. Bears general manager Ryan Poles emphasized Allen’s impressive track record and the anticipation of his impact on their offense.
“We’re extremely excited to add Keenan to our team. His body of work speaks for itself and we look forward to him elevating our offense.”
Nevertheless, the completion of the trade is contingent upon Allen passing a physical examination, ensuring his fitness and readiness to join the Bears.
While the Bears stand to benefit from Allen’s addition to their roster, the Chargers now possess the No. 5 overall pick in the upcoming 2024 NFL draft. This presents an opportunity for them to target one of the top wide receiver prospects and further strengthen their team for the future.
Throughout his illustrious career, the former Chargers player has amassed impressive statistics, including 904 receptions, 10,530 receiving yards, and 59 touchdowns. His consistency is evident in surpassing 100 catches in a single season five times, placing him fourth among active players in receptions.
Keenan Allen is happy with the new opportunity
Keenan Allen is embarking on a new journey, leaving behind the Chargers, where he had become a favorite target for quarterback Justin Herbert. While he had hoped to finish his career in Los Angeles, Allen acknowledges that things change, and he’s ready to move forward.
Meanwhile, Allen is ready to embrace the opportunity with enthusiasm rather than dwelling on the past.
“Definitely excited about the new opportunity. Like I said, being with a new organization; this organization has a lot of tradition. Obviously, I wanted to finish my career [in Los Angeles], but things happen, and you’ve got to keep on going,” he said, via NFL.com.
The 31-year-old had an exceptional 2023 season, achieving impressive numbers with 108 catches, 1,243 yards, and seven touchdowns. His impressive performance on the field will greatly benefit the team as they strive to build a strong roster for the upcoming season.
Nevertheless, as he transitions to the Bears, one burning question has arisen that who will be throwing him the football?
All indications point to the Bears selecting USC quarterback Caleb Williams, who is hoping to enter the NFL without an agent. If this scenario comes true, he will be catching passes from the talented rookie, marking the beginning of a new era for both players.
