D.J. Moore played a significant role in the Panthers’ trade with the Bears to acquire the No. 1 pick in 2023. His current contract, signed before the market for his position surged, may lead to a salary increase in the near future.
At 27, Moore exceeded 1,100 yards three times during his five years in Carolina. While the Panthers did not initially plan to part ways with him after his contract, the Bears insisted on including him in the trade due to the expiration of his rookie deal. Upon joining Chicago as the top wide receiver, Moore had a standout season last year. 
The former first-round pick set personal bests in catches (96), yards (1,364), and touchdowns (eight) in 2023 despite challenges with the Bears’ QB situation. This has been a recurring theme throughout Moore’s career, but the arrival of Caleb Williams could change that narrative. Although Williams has high expectations as the top pick, the strong skill group around him may alleviate pressure for him to perform immediately for the Bears’ success.
After trading for Keenan Allen and drafting Rome Odunze, Moore has two years remaining on his $61.88MM extension. While an extension this summer is not urgent, Kevin Fishbain of The Athletic suggests that Moore, based on his performance and standing within the organization, is a strong candidate for an extension in the future.
In 2024 and ’25, Moore is set to earn just over $16MM, with only $1.11MM of his base salaries guaranteed. His current average salary makes him the 17th highest-paid receiver in the league, a ranking that may decrease as other receivers sign their second contracts. A deal to keep him in Chicago through his prime and during Williams’ rookie contract appears to be a sensible move for both player and team based on Moore’s performance in his first season with the Bears.
While the presence of Allen and Odunze could reduce Moore’s offensive role, GM Ryan Poles may choose to wait until the end of the 2024 season to evaluate the new playmakers before committing to a deal with Moore. However, another productive season could increase Moore’s value in a continuously growing receiver market.
Two agents, not representing Moore, referenced Calvin Ridley‘s Titans deal as a comparable contract, suggesting that Moore could command a raise if a short-term deal were negotiated. The agents proposed a two-year, $60MM extension for Moore, considering his age and performance.
With ample cap space, the Bears can afford to make a significant investment in Moore. It remains to be seen whether Poles and the Bears will pursue an agreement with Moore during the summer or take a more patient approach.
