Chicago Bears wide receiver Allen Robinson is coming off a forgettable season in the Windy City. Robinson’s playing time, targets, and overall stats dipped in Matt Nagy’s final year in Chicago despite the wideout receiving the franchise tag last offseason. How will he fare when 2022 free agency begins?
Allen Robinson: Free Agency Overview
While Robinson’s awkward fourth season with the Bears probably sunk some of his appeal on the free agent market, his résumé as a Pro Bowl playmaker isn’t worth dismissing. Robinson should attract teams looking for a veteran wide receiver to anchor a young position room.
Recapping Robinson’s 2021 season
In a season where Robinson battled COVID-19, a hamstring injury, and unrest (again) at the quarterback spot, he put up just 410 yards and a touchdown on 38 catches in 12 games. Robinson’s route tree and overall targets were limited as the Bears’ quarterback position became a turnstile of sorts. Robinson is known for his route-running prowess and jump-ball ability, but the Bears utilized neither skill during the 2021 campaign.
Robinson’s contract estimate and salary cap implications
Robinson has made $64.5 million since the Jacksonville Jaguars took him in the second round of the 2014 NFL Draft. Last season, Robinson made a career-high $17.9 million on the franchise tag.
Robinson isn’t likely to duplicate last year’s salary on the open market, but he still should see enough interest to draw a handsome salary. Despite his rough campaign in Chicago last season, Spotrac projects his market value at $16.3 million per season. That average would put him within the top 10 annual salaries at the wideout spot.
While the Bears have revamped their front office and coaching staff, with Nagy and former GM Ryan Pace out of the door, Robinson will presumably look for a change of scenery in free agency.
Possible landing spots for Robinson
Robinson is likely to draw interest from teams looking for a veteran wideout who can play multiple positions. Robinson can work as an X, Z, and slot receiver, and he wins 1-on-1 matchups with regularity.
Robinson could be a prime target for teams like the Philadelphia Eagles, Jacksonville Jaguars, and Las Vegas Raiders. He could add veteran experience to young wide receiver rooms and be a safety net for their respective quarterbacks. Robinson went to Penn State, so landing in Philadelphia would be a bit of a homecoming. The same could be said for Jacksonville, as the Jaguars drafted Robinson in 2014.
What they’re saying about Robinson
“He’s a tremendous route runner. I don’t know if he’s a sure No. 1 anymore — that remains to be seen — but he’ll be extremely productive because he has a really good skill set in terms of his route-running ability and catching skills.” — Longtime NFL scout to Pro Football Network on Robinson’s remaining upside.