Chicago Bears NFL Draft 2021: 5 factors that harm this year’s draft

The Chicago Bears kicked themselves by not signing Allen Robinson long-term

The fact that it got to this point is an indictment on Ryan Pace and Ryan Pace alone. There is not much else Allen Robinson could have done to solidify himself in Chicago on a long-term deal. But, when it came to contract negotiations last year, Robinson and the Bears could not agree on an extension.

So, the Bears broke off talks and Robinson played the 2020 season on his last year. All he did was, once again, prove how valuable he is to this team.

Last season, Robinson absorbed over 25 percent of the team’s target share, tallied nearly 32 percent of the Bears’ receiving yards and led the team in yards per touch by any offensive player at 12.1 (minimum 10 touches).

Still, Pace and the Bears slapped the franchise tag on him after not speaking with him since September. Pace really went six months without speaking to Robinson’s camp about a contract extension. It’s incredible, honestly.

Now, what do they do? Is Pace truly confident they can get a deal done before July 15? Or, do they need to invest highly in a wide receiver this year?

It’s a tough spot to be in, because if the Bears had wrapped up Robinson long-term, they may be able to get by without drafting a receiver in the first three rounds. Having Robinson and Darnell Mooney for the foreseeable future means the team has a strong duo. Even beyond those guys, though, the team needs a solid WR3 — and Anthony Miller may be gone soon.

So, in addition to quarterback and offensive line, and even cornerback, the Bears now have to think about adding a receiver with one of their first three draft picks. One of these positions is going to get skimmed over and there will be a sacrifice made, all because Pace refuses to pay Robinson what he’s deserving of.