Keenan Allen’s free agency plans have taken a surprising turn. While widely expected to explore the open market, Allen has publicly expressed a desire to continue his career with either the Chicago Bears or the Los Angeles Rams or to end up back with the Chargers.
Rams Among Small Pool Of Desirable Destinations For Keenan Allen
This revelation, reported by Patrick Finley of the Chicago Sun-Times, comes after Allen’s recent change in representation. While Allen previously expressed interest in re-signing with the Bears, family considerations have led him to explore the possibility of returning to the Los Angeles area.
Allen embarked on his NFL career in 2013 with the Chargers, remaining with the franchise throughout its transitions from San Diego to Carson, California, and ultimately to Los Angeles.
Allen experienced a near career-best season in 2023, recording 108 receptions for 1,243 yards in 13 games, earning his sixth Pro Bowl selection However, his performance with the Bears this season fell short of expectations, with the 32-year-old wide receiver accumulating 67 receptions for 719 yards.
Reuniting with the Chargers may seem unlikely due to the abrupt fallout caused by massive cost-cutting measures by the new front office and coaching staff, that oversaw Allen’s trade to the Bears and the cutting of fellow wide receiver Mike Williams.
The receiver, who will become a free agent after Sunday’s game, kept his family back at their home in Southern California after the Bears traded for him in March.
According to Finney, “The receiver, who will become a free agent after Sunday’s game, kept his family back at their home in Southern California after the Bears traded for him in March.”
The Rams’ interest in acquiring Allen is currently up for debate. Given their recent reluctance to trade Cooper Kupp and the emergence of Puka Nacua as a key offensive contributor, the team may prioritize internal development.
However, Allen’s preference for playing in either Chicago or Los Angeles could pique the Rams’ interest. Three of the Rams’ seven currently rostered wide receivers will be free agents after the season, including receiving touchdown leader Demarcus Robinson.
Given his superb route running and ability to play inside and out, Allen would make for an intriguing partner for Kupp and Nacua.
The big question remaining is, will Allen see a return to form in a more hospitable and stable environment? Or was 2024 a harbinger of the end of his career?
With this limited scope for free agency Allen will be forced to take a smaller-than-expected contract, but that is to be expected given his specific family-friendly requirements.