April 30, 2025
GREEN BAY, Wis. – The Green Bay Packers are set to land a blockbuster, signing former Chicago Bears wide receiver Keenan Allen to a one-year, $12 million deal, sources told ESPN Saturday. The 6-time Pro Bowler will lead a youthful receiving corps.
Allen, 33, boasts 11,274 career receiving yards and 66 touchdowns across 12 seasons. His 2024 Bears stint yielded 700 yards, but a 2023 career-high 108 catches highlights his elite route-running (NFL.com).
The Packers, reeling from an 11-6 wild-card loss, need a veteran WR1. “Keenan’s a proven leader,” GM Brian Gutekunst said. With Christian Watson sidelined by an ACL tear, Allen mentors rookies Matthew Golden and Savion Williams (Packers Wire).
Green Bay’s receivers, 11th in passer rating, leaned on Jayden Reed’s 857 yards. Allen’s 80.1 PFF grade and zero drops in 2024 add reliability, pairing with Golden’s 4.29-second speed and Williams’ versatility (Pro Football Reference).
Allen’s $12 million contract, with $8 million guaranteed, fits the Packers’ $47 million cap space. “I’m here for a ring,” he told reporters. His 7 seasons over 1,000 yards signal a dynamic threat (Spotrac).
The Bears, focusing on DJ Moore and Rome Odunze, let Allen walk. Green Bay seized the chance, leveraging his NFC North savvy. His 12.7% missed tackle rate in 2024 is a concern, but Matt LaFleur’s system maximizes his precision (The Athletic).
Fans erupted on X. “Allen in Green Bay? Massive!” one post cheered. The signing bolsters Jordan Love’s 3,947-yard arm and Josh Jacobs’ 1,329 yards, aiming to surpass the Lions and Vikings (ESPN).
As OTAs loom, Allen’s veteran presence could elevate Green Bay’s offense. Can the ex-Bear guide the Packers’ young receivers to a Super Bowl? With his leadership, Titletown’s championship dreams soar for 2025.
