The Chicago Bears are 3-2 and have won three straight games. The offensive production has been a reason for that, but veteran receiver D.J. Moore has not played a large role in those efforts during the 2025 season.
After six weeks, Moore is third on the team in team targets (28) behind Rome Odunze (40) and Olamide Zaccheaus (28). ESPN senior writer Mike Clay also pointed out that rookie Luther Burden played in 13 total snaps in the win over the Commanders but still managed to get more targets than Moore (5-4).
Moore's name has popped up in some trade speculation earlier in the season, and his usage thus far is only adding more smoke to that fire. With the trade deadline less than one month away, this is a trend that fans should expect to continue seeing when it comes to Moore.
DJ Moore Isn’t Being Featured in Bears Offense Adding to Trade Buzz
Moore's usage on Monday needs to come with a grain of salt, as he was clearly less than 100%. He was dealing with a groin injury that forced him to head to the hospital following the game. Head coach Ben Johnson gave a positive update on Moore's health, stating he's day-to-day. Regardless of that, Moore's start to the season has been slow.
The Maryland product has 19 catches for 215 receiving yards and one touchdown on the year. He has failed to record more than 46 receiving yards since Week 1, which is a massive letdown for a WR that was expected to have a big role within the offense.
In July 2024, Moore signed a four-year, $110 million extension, which included $81 million guaranteed. He's signed through the 2029 season, with a cap hit being at least $24 million. That's a lot of money for a receiver that isn't being used as a top playmaker in the offense.
It's worth adding that Johnson wasn't the head coach when Moore received that deal. General manager Ryan Poles was the one who gave him that deal, but with a new head coach calling the shots, things could change.
As of right now, the odds are very low that the Bears would exactly move on from one of their most talented pass catchers. They are fighting for a playoff spot in a competitive NFC, so moving on from Moore wouldn't make the most sense, but never say never.
Moore's lack of production could become a bigger storyline later on in the season, and if they stay in this direction, he could be a player who asks out.