LAKE FOREST, Ill. (104.3 The Score) — While developing over his first two NFL seasons, Bears quarterback Caleb Williams often looked in the direction of veteran receiver DJ Moore.
That wasn’t just on the field. Moore was also a constant presence for Williams away from the game as they played cards and had dinner together.
Moore was traded by the Bears to the Bills back in March. The move created salary cap space for Chicago and got the Bears a second-round pick from the Bills. It was a move that fit the Bears’ direction this offseason, though Williams will miss having Moore as a teammate.
"He’s a pro,” Williams said. “He’s been that since he’s been in the league. On the football side of it, obviously, you’re going to miss him being out there making plays for you, for me, for the team. On the other side from the football side, you understand there’s a business side to it. You got to roll with the punches.
“You build up a relationship on a personal level, it sucks that he has to go."
Moore had 244 receptions and 20 touchdowns over three seasons with the Bears. He had a drop in production in 2025, catching a career-low 50 passes for 682 yards and six scores. The Bears will now turn to Rome Odunze and Luther Burden III as their top options at wide receiver.
Now entering his third NFL season, Williams knows he'll continue to have the spotlight on him. That pressure to perform will now include the task of elevating the Bears' passing game without Moore.
“I’ve always expected this because I wanted to be here,” Williams said of facing pressure. “This is where I wanted to be. I’ve wanted to be in this position. I’ve always said if winning games and championships comes with a little bit more light, then so be it. We’re going to keep chugging along. I have goals in mind and what I want to reach myself. It mainly deals with winning."
Chris Emma covers the Bears and the Chicago sports scene for 104.3 The Score.
