The Chicago Bears entered the offseason facing a significant setback after losing wide receiver DJ Moore. The 28-year-old’s departure leaves a major gap in the offense and raises questions about the team’s direction. Head coach Ben Johnson addressed the situation and revealed how the team will adjust moving forward.
The Bears traded the star receiver to the Buffalo Bills in March in exchange for a 2026 second-round draft pick. The move cleared significant salary cap space but removed the primary target for quarterback Caleb Williams.
Moore was a key part of Chicago’s passing offense and among its most dependable players. He excelled in creating separation and gaining extra yards after catching the ball. With him gone, the Bears lose both his on-field performance and his experience as a veteran leader.
Chicago Bears’ coach Ben Johnson on next steps following DJ Moore’s departure
Johnson, in his second season as Bears’ head coach, recently addressed the unfortunate development of losing a cornerstone player. He indicated that the team will not designate a direct successor to Moore’s WR1 role immediately. Instead, the coaching staff plans to replace the wideout’s production using players beyond just the receiving group.
“It’s a competition between the receiver room, the tight end room and the running back room,” Johnson said, via Mark Carman of the “CHGO Bears” podcast.
The wide receiver group is now shifting its focus to developing younger talent like Rome Odunze and Luther Burden III. These high-draft picks from the past two seasons must now handle increased defensive scrutiny. To assist in the transition, the Bears signed former Detroit Lions veteran receiver Kalif Raymond to a one-year deal in mid-March.
There will also be pressure on the team’s tight ends to be dependable targets for the quarterback. Cole Kmet and Colston Loveland have long arms and can make important catches to keep drives going. The Bears could potentially utilize two-tight-end formations more often in the upcoming season.
As the 2026 campaign approaches, Johnson is focusing on improving the offense that helped Chicago win last year’s NFC North title.
Chicago Bears’ Ben Johnson catching strays from bitter NFL coach
Read MoreFor More Great Chicago Sports Content
Get the latest Chicago sports news, analysis, and breaking stories on the Bears, Bulls, Blackhawks, Cubs, White Sox, Sky, and more! Tap the star to add us to your favorites on Google News, so you never miss a story on your favorite Chicago teams.
Follow us on Twitter at @chicitysports23 for more great content. We appreciate you taking time to read our articles. To interact more with our community and keep up to date on the latest in Chicago sports news, JOIN OUR FREE FACEBOOK GROUP by CLICKING HERE
