Windy City Gridiron
In this series, we look back at the biggest moves from a year ago and review how they have panned out up to this point.
Next up in our 2024 rearview mirror series is Wide Receiver, Keenan Allen.
On Thursday, March 14th, 2024, Chicago Bears GM Ryan Poles traded for former Los Angeles Chargers Wide Receiver Keenan Allen in exchange for a 4th round pick (110 overall) in the 2024 NFL draft.
This was coming off a Pro Bowl season where Allen recorded 1243 yards receiving and 7 TDs in just 13 games and was Keenan’s 6th Pro Bowl nod in his 11-year career to that point. Some of you may remember this game-clinching final play in the 2024 Pro Bowl Flag Football game, where Allen’s future teammate would break up a pass intended for him, sealing the victory for the NFC squad.
But how did the trade fare for Chicago?
Early returns were promising with Allen seeming engaged and even showing up, in Bears garb no less, to future Bear Caleb William’s pro day at USC in southern California.
Allen appeared to be bought in and excited about the prospect of playing with another young stud at QB after watching Justin Herbert grow into a top pro with the Chargers. He remained locked-in even after Chicago drafted Washington Husky WR Rome Odunze at 1.09 after selecting Caleb 1st overall in the 2024 draft. Keenan Allen would go on to produce 744 yards on 70 catches (121 targets) with 7 TDs in 15 games and appeared to be one of Caleb’s top targets in multiple moments throughout the season and even led the team in receiving yards in three weeks, including 2 of the last 4 games. Keenan Allen even had the highest single-game output in week 16 against the Lions when he gained 141 yards on 9 receptions.
But again, I ask the question. Was it worth it?
Just a few picks after Javon Baker, WR from UCF was selected with the 110 pick (the pick used to acquire Keenan Allen), offensive linemen Tanner Bortolini and Mason McCormick were selected and by now we all know the misery that ensued thanks to our offensive offensive line. Meanwhile, Rome Odunze was targeted 20 fewer times than Keenan Allen and had only 54 receptions for 734 yards and 3 TD’s. Could he have done more without Keenan in his way of targets and playing time? Would he be better off having more time to gel with his QB1? I think it is safe to say ‘yes’ but I could certainly see the argument for each. Either way, I am grateful for the efforts both on and off the field that Keenan Allen put forth and wish him the best of luck. In another jersey.
Check out the other 2024 player acquisition reviews here:
