The Chicago Bears continue to have a big offseason as they prepare their roster for the arrival of expected No. 1 overall pick Caleb Williams. The team is trading a fourth-round draft selection to the Los Angeles Chargers for six-time Pro Bowler Keenan Allen, according to Fox Sports' Jay Glazer.

The surprise move comes after the star wide receiver refused to take a pay cut, per NFL Network's Ian Rapoport. LA must now quickly pivot with NFL free agency underway and figure out how to resupply its offense. Allen's future was a bit murky due to his contract situation, but fans did not expect a decision to be made so quickly.

One era ends for Keenan Allen, but another could begin with Bears

Releasing Mike Williams and restructuring the deals of both Joey Bosa and Khalil Mack were supposed to give the Chargers' front office some time to sort everything out, but they obviously did not think a resolution could be reached with the franchise great. Jim Harbaugh is not bound by any prior attachment and is seemingly confident in his ability to field a productive pass-catching group for quarterback Justin Herbert.

While the Bolts face a period of uncertainty, the Bears bring in a reliable safety net for Williams, who is all but guaranteed to land in the Second City at the 2024 NFL Draft. At almost 32 years of age, Keenan Allen will not factor into the team's long-term plans, but he can bridge the gap in this transitional era.

When surveying the roster that general manager Ryan Poles has assembled in Chicago, competing for a playoff berth is now a highly realistic goal. The former third-rounder has recorded 100 receptions or more in four of the last five seasons and also tallied 1,243 receiving yards (second-best in career) and seven touchdowns in 2023-24.

Allen pairs alongside DJ Moore, who ascended to the next wide receiver tier following a sensational campaign. The enthusiasm of Bears fans will rise to towering heights.

Soldier Field will be overflowing in anticipation next season 

The possibilities for the Bears' offense will make even the most skeptical fan smile from ear to ear. A stellar WR duo, versatile running back in D'Andre Swift, capable tight end in Cole Kmet and an improved offensive line will greatly increase the chances that Caleb Williams enjoys a successful rookie campaign.

The latest reactions appear to echo the good vibes in Chicago.

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Conversely, there is legitimate concern permeating through Los Angeles right now. The Chargers have lost Allen, Austin Ekeler and Mike Williams this offseason, three players who were core weapons for Justin Herbert over the last few seasons. There are also not many big names left to scoop up on the open market, as podcast host Steven Haglund notes.

“Trading Keenan Allen doesn’t make any sense to me in any aspect, man,” he posted on X. “Especially now that you can’t even really use the cap savings. All the good free agents are gone! I’m struggling with this one, ya'll.”

Fortunately, LA has the capability to alleviate a bit of the pain their fans are feeling after abruptly saying goodbye to a true pillar of consistency. The organization can use the No. 5 pick in this year's NFL Draft to find their next great wide receiver.

Assuming the Chargers do just that, and 2022 first-round selection Quentin Johnston puts his disappointing rookie season behind him, the first year of the Jim Harbaugh Era can still be a celebratory one.