Fantasy Football Impact: D.J. Moore Joins Chicago Bears
D.J. Moore, 25, spent his entire 5-year NFL career in Carolina after being drafted with the No. 24 pick in 2018. With over 1,000 yards receiving in three seasons and 21 total touchdowns, Moore is an excellent addition to the Chicago Bears offense. He has a strong connection with Fields, known for his arm strength, and is an expert in deep ball receiving, as shown by his 172 targets 10-19 yards downfield from 2019-22, the second-most in the NFL in that category according to Brad Spielberger of PFF.
According to NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport, the Bears have made a massive trade with the Panthers, giving up the No. 1 overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft in exchange for a significant compensation package. The package includes two first-round picks, a second-round pick, and a talented receiver in D.J. Moore. Moore, who recently signed a three-year, $61.88 million contract with the Panthers, adds a powerful weapon to the Bears' offense. Additionally, the compensation package includes a mix of current and future picks, providing the Bears with added flexibility as they build for the future.
Carolina's decision to trade a significant package of assets for one draft pick leaves no doubt that they are eyeing a quarterback. With standout performances by Anthony Richardson and C.J. Stroud at the NFL Scouting Combine, it's unsurprising that the Panthers moved quickly to secure their future signal-caller.
It's uncertain who Panthers general manager Scott Fitterer is eyeing, as several quarterbacks have potential. Alabama's Bryce Young, along with Anthony Richardson and C.J. Stroud, are all strong contenders, and a few Will Levis supporters may advocate for his selection. Such debates are common during draft season in the football world.
With the addition of Fields, Moore has a quarterback who can effectively pass him the ball. Though Fields' numbers from last season weren't stellar, with just over 2,200 passing yards and 18 touchdowns, he demonstrated flashes of brilliance. He completed several successful deep balls, displaying his elite arm strength. Moore is expected to be a crucial addition to the puzzle, helping Fields achieve success through the air in his third year.
D.J. Moore is a bona fide number-one receiver who can handle a significant target load. Although he has shown flashes of elite efficiency, he has yet to play with a quarterback capable of propelling him to a WR1 season. While moving from one run-heavy offense to another, he now joins a team that struggled with one of the worst passing attacks in 2022.