Creating a deal with the Chicago Bears, the Carolina Panthers paid a heavy price to land the top pick in the 2023 NFL Draft.
Along with top receiver DJ Moore, the Panthers also packaged a 2024 first-rounder and two second-round picks for the right to draft quarterback Bryce Young.
Some observers called the deal one of the worst in league history, especially after Young struggled through a 2-15 rookie campaign.
Young rebounded in 2025, guiding the Panthers to their first NFC South title in 10 seasons. Did it help balance the long-term scales of the trade?
A roster maneuver this offseason by Panthers general manager Dan Morgan could do it.
The Panthers enter 2026 seeking to deploy a legitimate downfield threat for Young.
NFL trade rumors suggest the Panthers are investigating ways to reunite with Moore.
This one will hurt for a bit. Caleb Williams said postgame that he thought DJ Moore would flatten his route on the OT pick. There was a ton of space and it likely would’ve been the kill shot from the Bears. pic.twitter.com/gZ00kgfnT0
— Depressed Bears Fan (@DepBearsFan) January 19, 2026
NFL Trade Rumors: Panthers Could Use DJ Moore’s Explosiveness
Moore’s season didn’t end well.
In overtime of a divisional round game against the visiting Los Angeles Rams, Moore appeared open for a clinching first down, but ran wide and Caleb Williams’ pass was intercepted.
Williams said after the game he believed Moore would flatten his route.
Bears fans were furious at the league’s No. 6 receiver in 2023, compiling 1,364 yards. They questioned his route running and effort. After his first season in Chicago, Moore compiled an 89.0 overall Pro Football Focus grade. Over the past two seasons, however, he posted grades of 73.5 and 72.8. At a cost of $28.5 million against the cap, Moore served as the Bears’ No. 4 receiver.
The NFC North-champion Bears, whose defense ranked No. 29 in yards allowed per game (361.8), need defensive reinforcements. Moore could be GM Ryan Poles’ top trade chip.
The Panthers’ offense ranked No. 27 in yards per game (295.6). Young could benefit from Moore’s big-play ability. If Morgan engineers a deal for Moore, he would join a young receiving room with Tetairoa McMillan, Jalen Coker, Xavier Legette, and Jimmy Horn Jr.
Young needs a downfield threat.
Before you pile on DJ Moore, remember… pic.twitter.com/005gTAmgT7
— Mike Schaefer
(@MikeSchaefer14) January 19, 2026
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