3 Bears Playing for Their Jobs Coming Out of the Bye Week
3. Keenan Allen: Wide Receiver
Now, you can talk about players such as Nate Davis, Ryan Bates, and Larry Borom, but Keenan Allen has much to play for coming out of the bye. The Bears traded a fourth-round pick in the offseason for him because they wanted a veteran x-factor to ease the rookie quarterback into the league.
Even with Allen's resume, he plays for a big payday next year. He is in the final year of his contract, and the Bears must decide if he is worthy of re-signing. At the moment, it seems unlikely.
The Bears re-signed D.J Moore to a massive contract extension, and they also drafted rookie Rome Odunze in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft. If Allen is willing to take on a team-friendly deal, the Chicago might bring him back to give Caleb all the help required.
The offensive line has plenty of question marks, but if you subtract a talent like Allen, the Bears will need to find a replacement this offseason. There is little to no depth at the position outside of the top three.
Tyler Scott has not seen any action on the field. Velus Jones has been a healthy scratch, and Deandre Carter is unreliable. At best, Carter is an depth piece.
These next few games will be a test to help determine if Allen can get a new contract this offseason. The Bears have an arduous schedule and have yet to play a division rival this season.
Allen can be a huge proponent in pushing the Bears to a playoff season. That begs the question of whether or not he can stay healthy. Health is a critical factor for a playoff push.
Allen has shown what he can do with two touchdowns against the Jaguars. If he can continue on a consistent pace, then expect the Bears to make a push for a playoff appearance.
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