Keenan Allen Shares Significant Update Regarding His Future with the Chicago Bears

Los Angeles Chargers fans are still grappling with the news of Pro Bowl wide receiver Keenan Allen's trade to the Chicago Bears.

Amid rumors towards the end of the 2023 season suggesting Allen would contemplate retirement if he couldn't continue with the Chargers, the veteran wideout clarified during his official introduction by the Bears on Saturday that Chicago was among the teams he approved for a trade.

With a $5 million roster bonus due on Sunday, Allen declined the Chargers' proposal for a pay cut, prompting the team to swiftly execute the trade. While initial speculation hinted at a possible contract extension with Allen before Sunday's deadline, the Bears seem comfortable absorbing the $5 million without compromising their salary cap flexibility.

Heading into the 2024 season, Allen carries a $21 million cap hit before hitting unrestricted free agency next offseason. However, indications from Saturday's press conference suggest Allen won't reach free agency as all signs point to him signing a contract extension with the Bears.


Given Allen's stellar performance last season with a career-high 108 receptions in just 13 games, the Bears have little reason to fear regression over the next two seasons. A potential three-year contract extension would provide flexibility for the Bears, allowing them to assess Allen's performance over the initial years of the deal before making any long-term commitments.

Ultimately, Saturday's developments affirm that Allen is content with his new team and has no intention of departing anytime soon.