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LAKE FOREST, Ill. — The Chicago Bears made their first significant move of the offseason on Thursday, sending wide receiver DJ Moore to the Buffalo Bills in exchange for a 2026 second-round pick . The trade, which cannot be finalized until the new league year begins on March 11, also includes the Bears sending a 2026 fifth-round pick to Buffalo .
Trade Details
| Bears Receive | Bills Receive |
|---|---|
| 2026 second-round pick | WR DJ Moore |
| — | 2026 fifth-round pick |
Why It Happens
For the Bears, the move accomplishes multiple objectives:
- Clears significant cap space as Chicago prepares for free agency
- Adds a premium draft pick to a rebuilding roster
- Removes their most accomplished pass catcher at a time when the team appears headed for a roster reset
Moore, 28, was acquired by the Bears in the blockbuster trade that sent the No. 1 overall pick to the Carolina Panthers in 2023 . In two seasons with Chicago, Moore established himself as the team’s top receiving threat despite inconsistent quarterback play .
What Moore Brings to Buffalo
For the Bills, adding Moore addresses their need for a reliable No. 2 receiver opposite Stefon Diggs . With Gabe Davis departing in free agency last year and Khalil Shakir more of a slot option, Buffalo has lacked a proven perimeter threat to complement Diggs .
Moore’s skill set—excellent route running, yards-after-catch ability, and veteran savvy—fits perfectly in coordinator Joe Brady’s offense . He gives quarterback Josh Allen another dynamic weapon as Buffalo pushes for another Super Bowl run .
🔮 What’s Next
The trade cannot become official until Wednesday, March 11 at 4 p.m. ET, when the new league year officially begins and trades can be processed .
For the Bears, the move signals that general manager Ryan Poles is willing to part with established talent for future assets as Chicago continues its long-term rebuild. For the Bills, it’s a win-now move that bolsters their receiving corps ahead of what they hope is a championship season.
