The preseason buzz surrounding the Chicago Bears’ offense has largely fizzled out over nine games, with the unit faltering during a three-game losing streak. Heading into their Week 11 matchup against the Green Bay Packers at Soldier Field, the Bears have gone 23 consecutive possessions without scoring a touchdown.
A struggling and injury-riddled offensive line has left rookie quarterback Caleb Williams poorly protected, creating the offense’s most pressing issue. Meanwhile, the highly touted group of skill-position players, expected to be among the NFL’s best, has failed to deliver.
Despite the challenges, stars like Keenan Allen have the potential to bounce back in a more functional offense. At 32 and with a recent history of injuries, Allen’s return to Chicago in 2025 seems unlikely without a significant contract extension—a move the Bears are unlikely to make given his production and availability issues this season.
As a result, Allen is expected to seek a fresh start in free agency. Kristopher Knox of *Bleacher Report* predicted on November 16 that Allen could thrive elsewhere.
“Like fellow receiver DJ Moore, Allen has seen his numbers decline. However, with improved coaching, a more cohesive offense, and a more efficient quarterback, he could return to the form he often displayed with the Los Angeles Chargers,” Knox wrote. “Allen should consider joining [Saquon] Barkley in Philadelphia. The Eagles, in need of a third receiver to complement A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith, would benefit from his inside-outside versatility, making him a perfect fit for the role.”
New Deal for Keenan Allen Doesn’t Make Financial Sense for Bears
Keenan Allen could potentially recapture his Pro Bowl form in Chicago next season, but the financial landscape makes it unlikely.
The Bears recently committed to DJ Moore with a nine-figure extension and used the No. 9 overall pick in April to draft wide receiver Rome Odunze. Allen, in the final year of an $80 million contract and approaching his mid-30s, faces a competitive market where demand for elite wide receivers is at an all-time high.
Meanwhile, Chicago’s offensive line remains a major liability, with guard Teven Jenkins as the lone bright spot. Jenkins, however, has dealt with persistent injury issues and is set to hit free agency next spring unless the Bears lock him up with an extension.
With nearly $82 million in salary cap space projected for 2025, the Bears are better positioned to address glaring needs on the offensive line and bolster their edge-rushing corps to improve their pass rush. Given these priorities, a significant investment in Allen is both unnecessary and improbable.
Bears Coaching Staff in Flux, Major Turnover May Be Coming
Chicago’s coaching situation might look entirely different in 2025, but it’s unlikely to impact Keenan Allen’s future with the team.
Head coach Matt Eberflus recently dismissed offensive coordinator Shane Waldron after a 19-3 home loss to the New England Patriots, marking the second OC he has let go this year following Luke Getsy’s departure in January.
However, Eberflus himself is under increasing scrutiny from fans, and with the Bears sitting at 4-5 and facing the league’s toughest remaining schedule, there’s a real possibility the organization could overhaul the coaching staff entirely next spring.
Regardless of any changes, Allen’s age, contract demands, and Chicago’s roster-building priorities make his return unlikely.
