NFL 2025 Draft Keenan Allens A Nightmare for the Chicago Bears

Introduction

Keenan Allen’s time with the Chicago Bears in 2024 didn’t exactly go as planned. When the team traded for him, the fans thrilled. They believed they had landed a superstar wide receiver. But his performance wasn’t anything special. As Allen searches for a new team in free agency, his choice may impact the Bears’ 2025 NFL Draft plans. This is especially true if the Las Vegas Raiders get involved.

Why? The Raiders could draft Boise State running back Ashton Jeanty. The Bears also want him. If Allen joins the Raiders, they might skip drafting a wide receiver and go after Jeanty instead. That would be bad news for Chicago.

Let’s break it down:

• What Allen’s next move means for the Bears.

• How the Raiders fit in.

• What could happen next.

Keenan Allen’s 2024 Season: What Went Wrong?

Big Hopes, Small Results

When the Bears got Allen before the 2024 season, expectations were sky-high. He had just come off an amazing 2023 season with the Chargers—108 catches, 1,243 yards, and seven touchdowns. Everyone thought he’d be a game-changer for the Bears' new quarterback, Caleb Williams.

But things didn’t go that way. Allen ended the season with 70 catches, 744 yards, and seven touchdowns. That’s a big drop-off. He only had one 100-yard game the entire season. He did pick up speed at the end, scoring five touchdowns in the last seven games. Still, it wasn’t the season Bears fans wanted.

Why Allen Still Has Value

Even though Allen didn’t shine in Chicago, he’s still a good player. He runs clean routes, knows how to get open, and can play both inside and outside. Plenty of teams could use a veteran like him—especially the Las Vegas Raiders.

Why the Raiders Want Keenan Allen

A Team in Need of a Wide Receiver

The Raiders need help at wide receiver. Right now, they have Jakobi Meyers and rookie tight end Brock Bowers, but that’s not enough. With Geno Smith as their new quarterback, they need another reliable pass catcher.

That’s where Keenan Allen comes in. If the Raiders sign him, their offense will improve immediately. Plus, having a veteran like Allen could help younger players develop.

How This Affects the Bears

Here's the issue for Chicago: If the Raiders sign Allen, they might not draft a wide receiver in the first round. Instead, they could look at another position—like running back.

And that’s a huge issue for the Bears because they really want Ashton Jeanty, one of the best running backs in the draft. If the Raiders take him first, the Bears will have to find a new plan.

Why the Bears Want Ashton Jeanty

A Perfect Fit for Chicago

The Bears are focusing their offense on Caleb Williams. They need a solid running game to support him. That’s why they have their eyes on Ashton Jeanty from Boise State.

Jeanty is explosive, fast, and great at catching passes out of the backfield. He’d fit perfectly into Chicago’s offense. The problem? He’s also a top target for other teams—including the Raiders.

The Raiders’ Draft Choices

If the Raiders don’t sign Allen, they could pick a wide receiver. One option is Tetairoa McMillan from Arizona. That would be great news for the Bears because it means Jeanty would still be available.

If the Raiders sign Allen, they may target a running back. This means Jeanty could be picked before the Bears get a chance. If you want to catch up on the latest games, visit NFL Streams on Sportsurge. You can stay updated with all the action there.

What Could Happen Next?

Scenario 1 – Allen Joins the Raiders

In the first scenario, Keenan Allen signs with the Raiders. If that happens, Las Vegas may decide they don’t need to draft a wide receiver in the first round. They might focus on running back now. This means Ashton Jeanty could be their choice. This would be a big blow to the Bears, who have their eyes on Jeanty as a key piece for their offense. If this happens, Chicago must find a backup plan. They might look for another player or try to trade up to get Jeanty before the Raiders do.

Scenario 2 – Allen Signs with Another Team

In the second scenario, Allen joins a new team. This leaves the Raiders still looking for a wide receiver. If they keep their focus on that draft spot, they could choose Tetairoa McMillan. That would be great news for the Bears because it would mean Jeanty is still on the board when it’s their turn to pick.

Scenario 3 – The Bears Adjust Their Draft Strategy

The Bears might need to change their draft strategy completely. If the Raiders pick Jeanty before Chicago, the Bears will need to find another running back. They might also look for a different offensive weapon instead. They could also explore a trade to move up in the draft if they’re really set on getting Jeanty.

No matter what happens, Keenan Allen’s decision could have a major impact on how things unfold. The Bears will have to stay flexible and be ready to adjust their plans depending on where he ends up. For more insights on the latest NFL news, visit ESPN, a trusted source for up-to-date coverage, player stats, and team analysis.

FAQs

1. Why didn’t Keenan Allen have a great season with the Bears?

His numbers dropped because he wasn’t as involved in the offense. The Bears had a rookie quarterback and a lot of moving pieces, so Allen never really found his rhythm.

2. Why do the Raiders want Allen?

They need an experienced wide receiver to help out their new quarterback, Geno Smith. Allen would give them a reliable target and make their offense stronger.

3. How does Allen signing with the Raiders affect the Bears?

If Allen joins the Raiders, they might not draft a wide receiver. Instead, they could go after Ashton Jeanty, the same player the Bears want.

4. Who is Ashton Jeanty?

He’s a running back from Boise State and one of the top prospects in the 2025 draft. He’s fast, tough, and can catch the ball—making him a great fit for the Bears.

5. What happens if the Bears can’t draft Jeanty?

They’ll have to adjust their plan. They could go for another running back later in the draft or trade up to make sure they get their guy.

Conclusion

Keenan Allen’s next move in free agency may look minor, but it could greatly impact the Chicago Bears.

If he joins the Las Vegas Raiders, they might draft Ashton Jeanty. This could leave the Bears looking for a backup plan. But if Allen goes somewhere else, Chicago’s path to drafting Jeanty looks much easier.

The NFL Draft is full of surprises, and free agency moves like this can change everything. Bears fans will just have to wait and see where Allen ends up—and hope it doesn’t ruin their team’s draft plans.