The Chicago Bears traded a fourth-round pick for Keenan Allen last week. He is excited to compete against his teammates in practice heading into the 2023 season.
Keenan Allen is a welcome veteran addition to the Bears’ receiving unit. Last week, he was traded for a fourth-round pick to bolster the offense’s weapons. Most assume his ability will help the presumed rookie starter, Caleb Williams.
His ability on the game field will excite fans most, but his ability on the practice field might help out differently. In an introductory interview, Keenan shared some “fast facts” about himself, and he was already excited for a “rematch” with fellow teammate Jaylon Johnson.
“Jaylon Johnson kind of got the best of me in the Pro Bowl, but you have created a rivalry, so these one-on-ones in practice are going to be real special, and you me owe me too because you know you were holding.”
.@Keenan13Allen's ready for the rematch 😂
— Chicago Bears (@ChicagoBears) March 19, 2024
Chicago Bears Offseason
One of the most unsung moves in free agency was the extension of Jaylon Johnson. The Bears agreed to a four-year, $76 million deal with the star defender.
“We’re extremely excited to be able to keep Jaylon here for the next four years,” Bears general manager Ryan Poles said in a statement. “He’s an integral part of our defense, and his leadership will help our team continue to ascend.”
Keenan Allen was traded towards the end of week one of free agency. It was one of the surprise moves of the entire NFL free agency period thus far. The LA Chargers were dismal financially, and decisions needed to be made. Mike Williams, a former Charger wide receiver, was released around the same time as the Allen trade.
Competition Incoming
Keenan did face off against the Bears in week seven of 2023. He had eight receptions for 69 yards. Jaylon didn’t stick on Keenan the entire game, but it was a decent preview of the competition.
Keenan mentioned the Pro Bowl, where the AFC competed against the NFC in a flag football competition. Keenan’s comments reflected how he felt Jaylon covered him during that battle. Jaylon ended the Pro Bowl with a pass breakup on 4th and goal to seal a victory for the NFC.
Jaylon responded to Keenan’s interview. He is ready for the rematch.
Line it up ❗️ @Keenan13Allen https://t.co/AGJtFFP1XV
— Jaylon Johnson (@NBAxJay1) March 19, 2024
Both of these veteran leaders should help each other out. Training camp for the Bears will be one to tune into for 2024.
*Post Publish Update: Jaylon Johnson answers back on “Up & Adams” show.
Where do things stand with Bears CB Jaylon Johnson and his new teammate Keenan Allen after the Pro Bowl?? 👀
"I think we still gotta resolve that, he thinks I was holding." @NBAxJay1 @heykayadams @Keenan13Allen pic.twitter.com/aQbnYjlqrD
— Up & Adams (@UpAndAdamsShow) March 20, 2024
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