Chicago Bears should avoid trading for 2021 Offensive Player of the Year

The Chicago Bears will be looking to bring in new receivers that fit new head coach Ben Johnson’s scheme before his first season at the helm. The guru operated with plenty of speed throughout his time as the Detroit Lions offensive coordinator and despite him wanting to rip down the playbook in Chicago, his personnel concepts should remain the same.

Keenan Allen isn’t likely to return to the Bears in 2025 due to the changes on the coaching staff. Fans were frustrated with the veteran’s occasion drop issues during the year, but he put up solid numbers and was a reliable target for Caleb Williams.

Allen’s play style does not align with Johnson’s scheme, making him an easy candidate to head back to Los Angeles and either re-join the Chargers or sign with the Rams.

Chicago being in the market for a third wideout next to DJ Moore and Rome Odunze should have them paying attention to a star that will be on the move this offseason. Even though the front office will be locked into the free agent market and the draft, the possibility of bringing in the 2021 Offensive Player of the Year could catch Ryan Poles’ eye.

Cooper Kupp’s numbers would take the Chicago Bears to new heights

Cooper Kupp has been as consistent as can be for the Rams when he has stayed healthy in his career. He won the triple crown in 2021 by having the most receptions, yards and touchdowns en route to the first Super Bowl victory in his career. Kupp hasn’t played a full season since that year, but has still found a way to be extremely productive when he is on the field.

In 2024, Kupp logged 12 games in the eighth season of his career. Battling through injury, the veteran finished the year 67 catches for 710 yards and six scores. The Rams informed Kupp on Monday that this past season with the organization was his last.

Los Angeles will be looking to trade the 31-year-old this offseason after they drafted him in the third round of the 2017 draft. Many teams should be lining up for Kupp’s services in the trade market, and the Bears should not be counted out in the sweepstakes based on the assets they have to give and the cap space that they hold.

The Chicago Bears should hold off on making a move for Cooper Kupp

Kupp’s cap hit of nearly $30 million this upcoming season will make it harder for the Rams to move his contract than they would like. It will also limit the potential suitors for the star in his trade market before free agency hits. Chicago would certainly take a talent like Kupp’s any day of the week, but his how much it will cost to pay him might outweigh what he brings to the table.

Whatever team acquires Kupp will want to restructure his contract, but either way he still will not come cheap on top of what it will cost just to acquire him. Chicago would likely be better off looking elsewhere on the market or through the draft when bringing in a new wide receiver to this offense.

With the organization need three new offensive linemen and edge rushing help, putting this much of their resources toward a new weapon might not be the best move to make.