The 2026 trade window produced two headline deals: the Rams acquired All‑Pro cornerback Trent McDuffie from the Chiefs for a first and three other picks, and the Bills sent a 2026 second‑rounder to the Bears for WR DJ Moore plus a 2026 fifth. Both trades fit clear team priorities but carry different risk profiles. Below is a concise breakdown of why each team made the move and who ultimately benefits.
Bills trade for DJ Moore (from Bears) - Bills receive: WR DJ Moore, 2026 fifth‑round pick - Bears receive: 2026 second‑round pick
Why the Bears moved Moore - Cap and cash relief: Chicago was about to see much of Moore's contract become guaranteed—roughly $23.5M in base for 2026 (already guaranteed) and another $15.5M of 2027 slated to guarantee—creating near‑term cash pressure. Trading him frees substantial dollars and removes looming guarantees. - Roster fit and depth: The Bears added Rome Odunze and Colston Loveland and got strong play from Luther Burden III, leaving Moore likely to operate as a third or fourth option in Ben Johnson's run/screen‑leaning offense. His target share and route efficiency declined in 2024–25, and he is not an ideal blocker for Johnson's scheme. - Where
