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Injuries have limited 32-year-old receiver Keenan Allen in recent years, but the six-time Pro Bowler still had top-tier production in 2023. Despite playing just 13 games, he caught 108 passes for 1,243 yards and seven touchdowns.
Allen was traded to the Chicago Bears this past offseason, and he’s been uncharacteristically quiet in Chicago. He has missed time with a heel injury, but that has only been part of the problem.
The Bears have done a poor job of building an offense around rookie quarterback Caleb Williams, who has struggled to get Allen consistently involved. Despite seeing 48 targets, the veteran receiver has caught just 26 passes for 241 yards and two touchdowns.
The coaching of former offensive coordinator Shane Waldron, who was fired this week, may also have been part of the issue.
“I think during OTAs, training camp, he kind of fell into a trap of letting things go, not holding people accountable. Obviously those things lead to a slippery slope,” Allen said, per Dan Wiederer of the Chicago Tribune.
Like fellow receiver D.J. Moore, Allen has seen his numbers nosedive. With better coaching, a more cohesive offense and a more efficient quarterback, however, he might return to the production he frequently had with the Los Angeles Chargers.
Allen should be interested in following Barkley to Philadelphia. The Eagles have been desperate for a third receiver to partner with A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith, and his inside-outside versatility would make him perfect for the role.
Joining the Eagles would also allow Allen to reunite with Kellen Moore, who was the Chargers offensive coordinator in 2023 before taking the same role with Philly this season.
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