DJ Moore has recently been a hot topic for the Chicago Bears. The star wide receiver first got into trouble for supposed bad body language in the loss to the Houston Texans. Then, more recently, he made a comment about a missed touchdown opportunity against the Rams that some thought was a dig at quarterback Caleb Williams. It wasn’t, but people tend to overreact when reading transcripts. However, perhaps the most persistent rumor centers around Moore’s health.
Some people have openly wondered if the wide receiver is hurt. This comes from his unusual lack of explosiveness on the field. He hasn’t created as much separation from opposing defensive backs as we’re used to seeing. The only explanation for this in the minds of many is an undisclosed injury. Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribune was recently asked about this. He set the record straight, believing the explanation is unlikely to be health-related, especially if the Bears know about it.
“I don’t believe an injury is in play for Moore. He has not been listed on the injury report, and the Bears would be flirting with significant penalties if they were playing shenanigans with league rules.”
His lower production total stems from three factors. One is having a rookie quarterback throw the ball. Williams isn’t yet at a point where he’s going to chuck the ball 30-40 times per game—not without throwing some interception, anyway. Another is the sudden presence of two more prominent wide receiver targets in Rome Odunze and Keenan Allen. Don’t forget Moore didn’t have to share the ball much last year because the other receivers weren’t anywhere close to his level. Last but not least, he is playing in a new offensive system under Shane Waldron.
With all of these changes, it should’ve been expected that D.J. Moore might take time to adjust. Yes, his numbers are down. However, a hidden injury is too simple an explanation for a complex problem. The reality is that he is trying to get the right timing with a young quarterback while also mastering a new scheme. Signs are growing that he’s figuring it out. It is only a matter of time before the big plays start coming.
