Bears May Not Be Able To Get Extension Done With Keenan Allen

Keenan Allen, Los Angeles Chargers, Chicago Bears
Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

One of the most electrifying moves of the offseason for Chicago Bears fans was undoubtedly the acquisition of Keenan Allen through a trade.

The arrival of the Chargers’ veteran, fresh off an impressive season, for just a single fourth-round pick stirred considerable excitement. With Chicago’s pressing need for offensive firepower, adding a wide receiver who amassed 1,243 receiving yards last season seemed like an undeniable boon.

However, the longevity of Allen’s stint with the Bears remains uncertain.

Recent insights from ESPN’s Kris Rhim suggest that this union may not endure as long as some fans had hoped.

According to Rhim, Allen declined a salary reduction proposal from the Chargers earlier in the offseason, a move contrasting with star teammates Khalil Mack and Joey Bosa, who agreed to restructured deals. The proposed restructure for Allen entailed a two-year extension with an average salary lower than his base $18 million.

In contrast, Allen’s representatives sought a multi-year contract positioning him among the NFL’s highest-paid receivers. Despite attempts at negotiation, the Chargers opted to trade him to the Bears.

Presently, the league’s top-paid receivers, such as Tyreek Hill, Davante Adams, and A.J. Brown, command salaries exceeding $25 million annually. While Allen remains a formidable talent, it’s unlikely that he commands a similar contract from the Bears at this stage of his career.

General Manager Ryan Poles and the Bears front office must exercise caution in committing to lucrative long-term deals for aging stars, even those with Keenan Allen’s current prowess, especially given Chicago’s youthful roster brimming with potential.

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