Keenan Allen | Salary & Contract
This article examines the details of Keenan Allen’s deal with the Chicago Bears, following his trade from the Los Angeles Chargers. We’ll explore the factors behind the trade, the financial implications of the Keenan Allen contract, and how his arrival might impact the Bears’ offense.
Keenan Allen Contract with the Bears
Keenan Allen brings a $23.1 million cap hit to Chicago after being traded from the Chargers for a fourth round pick (No. 110 Overall). His Bears’ contract comes with base salary for 2024 of $18,100,000, with an additional $5,000,000 in roster/restructure bonus.
This is a significant change for the Bears’ organization considering his previous contract with the Chargers was set to be inflict a $34.7 million salary cap hit.
With the addition of Allen, the Bears acquired a proven wide receiver without committing to a long-term contract. The question remains open in regard to the extension due at the end of this season.
Bears’ GM Ryan Poles was recently asked about the upcoming extension.
“We’re just gonna keep it moving through the season and see how everything plays out….There isn’t a sense of urgency there right now. But we’ll see kinda how everything unfolds as we get into the season.”
Ryan Poles said on ESPN Chicago 1000 Podcast.
Keenan Allen Career Earnings
Over 11 NFL seasons, Keenan Allen has made $110,012,117 in total career earnings with the Chargers.
Here’s a breakdown:
| Earnings Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Base Salary | $57,680,529 |
| Signing Bonuses | $23,613,800 |
| Roster Bonuses | $17,835,000 |
| Restructure Bonuses | $9,500,000 |
| Workout Bonuses | $1,040,000 |
| Incentives | $342,788 |
READ MORE: CHICAGO BEARS FRANCHISE VALUE
Bolts to Bears: Why Did the Chargers Trade Allen?
The Chargers’ choice to trade Keenan Allen was likely driven by salary cap factors and Allen’s refusal to take a pay cut. By trading Allen, the Chargers freed up a significant portion of their salary cap, along with the decision to release wide receiver, Mike Williams.
Allen’s age (31) and injury history may have also played a role in the Chargers’ decision to part ways with the veteran receiver depsite him coming off the best season of his career.
Keenan Allen played 11 seasons with the Chargers . Last season, being one of the this best, 108 receptions for 1,243 yards and eight touchdowns.
The Chargers ultimately decided to address their offensive line in the draft, selecting Joe Alt, a left tackle from Notre Dame, with their first-round pick.
A Fresh Start in Chicago: How Allen Fits the Bears Offense
Keenan Allen brings experience and proven skills as a route runner and receiver to the Bears’ offense. His arrival could boost the Bears’ passing abilities, complementing the talents of DJ Moore, Cole Kmet, and Gerald Everett. The hope is that these new weapons provide a reliable target for the highly anticipated rookie quarterback, Caleb Williams.
However, it’s fair to consider this next season as a reset for the entire team with a new rookie QB at center. Questions remain whether Allen’s production will be impacted by the Bears’ potential quarterback situation.
The Bears also added Rome Odunze, a promising rookie wide receiver, further bolstering their receiving corps.
A Win-Win Trade?
The trade that brought Keenan Allen to Chicago appears a win-win for both teams. The Chargers freed up significant cap space, while the Bears acquired a proven wide receiver without committing to a multi year deal.
