the Los Angeles Chargers traded the six-time Pro Bowl wide receiver, Keenan Allen, to the Chicago Bears.
This exchange came with a fourth-round pick after the release of Los Angeles wide receiver Mike Williams by the Chargers.
In the backdrop of the trade, Allen revealed that he was asked by the Chargers to either take a pay cut or restructure his contract.
This was a proposition accepted by linebackers Joey Bosa and Khalil Mack. However, to the surprise of many, Allen chose to decline.
“There really was no emotion, it was, I’m not doing it,” Allen said of the team’s request. “I’m not doing it. Came off my best season, so it’s not happening.”
Allen opened up about his initial desire to finish his career in Los Angeles. “obviously wanted to finish my career” in Los Angeles,
“But things happen and you’ve got to keep on going,” said the 31-year-old receiver.
Bears WR Keenan Allen: I wanted to "finish my career" with Chargers but things happenhttps://t.co/nKo70SpEGQ pic.twitter.com/m4XCURDblq
— Around The NFL (@AroundTheNFL) March 17, 2024
Keenan Allen, who initially stepped into the NFL platform through the University of California, held an impressive record with the Chargers.
From his first draft in 2013, where he was the 76th overall pick, he elevated to bring home a career-high single-season record for the team with 108 receptions in just 13 games.
Allen was positioned to shatter further records. Unfortunately, an ankle injury cut short his season, causing him to miss the final four games.
Despite the injury, his contributions, particularly a remarkable 1,243 receiving yards and seven touchdowns, remain indelible in Chargers’ history.
At 31, Allen is excited about the new opportunities ahead and is particularly keen about teaming up with the Bears’ receiver DJ Moore.
“Anytime you’ve got two guys that can make plays and beat man coverage, it’s going to be tough,” Allen said. “That’s anytime. Obviously, he’s a guy who’s made plays in this league for a long time, and myself as well. Both of us together, it’s going to be pretty good.”
Allen said he’s going to “just continue what I’ve been doing” in Chicago. He added, “Nothing changes but the jersey for me. That last name’s still gonna be on the back.”
“I’m just a friendly guy,” he said. “I’m a friendly guy on and off the field. Obviously on the football field, I know the game. I know the ins and outs. I know the zones. I know how to beat man (coverage). I know pretty much how to play the game, so I just think I’m friendly for the quarterback because I’ll be in the right spots. I know how to communicate with them.”
The Chicago Bears currently hold the much-awaited No. 1 overall pick, which is projected to favor USC QB Caleb Williams.
