$110 Million DJ Moore Trade Rumor Doesn’t Add Up for Cowboys – 3 Big Reasons Why

On paper, a trade for Chicago Bears wide receiver D.J. Moore seems like a dream fit for the Dallas Cowboys. He checks all the boxes: explosive, experienced, versatile, and still in his prime at 28. But despite the buzz, there are strong reasons why this move is unlikely to happen.

At first glance, it’s easy to see why the Cowboys would be interested. With around $34.5 million in cap space — even after setting aside $10–12 million for their incoming draft class — Dallas could theoretically afford Moore’s contract. It wouldn’t be easy, but some financial maneuvering could make it possible.

The issue, though, is that Moore’s salary is no small hurdle. His cap hits sit at $24.9 million in 2025 and climb to $28 million in 2026. While manageable on paper, this is the kind of financial commitment the Cowboys have been hesitant to take on in recent years.

Still, Moore is exactly the kind of receiver Dallas says it’s targeting: a dynamic second option (and arguably a No. 1 caliber talent), who’s strong, productive, and adaptable to different offensive schemes. He’s among the top-paid receivers in the NFL — not ideal for Dallas — but also ranks sixth in overall production since entering the league in 2018, which certainly is ideal.

But despite the appeal, there are three major truths that make this trade improbable:

1. If he’s that valuable, why would Chicago let him go?
There are rumors he clashed with teammates or lost motivation late last season, possibly even “quitting” on rookie quarterback Caleb Williams. But is that enough for the Bears to cut ties with their top veteran weapon?

2. There’s no financial gain for Chicago.
Dealing Moore would actually cost the Bears $9 million in dead cap money. That’s not a smart move for a franchise that seems poised to win now.

3. The acquiring team inherits a heavy financial load.
Any team trading for Moore must take on his sizable contract. That’s two years of big cap hits — a tough sell even for teams with available funds.

Chicago has made clear moves to support its young quarterback, investing high draft picks in pass-catchers over the last two years. But that only strengthens the argument for keeping Moore, not shipping him off. Surrounding a rookie QB with talent is critical, and removing Moore could undercut that entire development plan.

So, while the idea of Moore in a Cowboys uniform is exciting and makes some football sense, the overall logistics don’t hold up — not for the Bears, and probably not for Dallas either.

An Amari Cooper reunion? Now that might be a more realistic conversation.