Chicago Bears: What Allen Robinson’s slow start means for his future
By Evan Bruner
Option one: Keep Allen Robinson
Even if Robinson hasn’t been as good in 2021, there are a lot of other factors contributing besides just his play. The Bears have become more committed to the run with Bill Lazor calling plays, and it has led to everyone, including Robinson, to get fewer targets. Outside of Darnell Mooney, every Bears pass-catcher has been used as much as anticipated for this season. Fans have also been vocal about their frustrations with players like Cole Kmet and Damiere Byrd not getting many targets. Robinson’s lack of touches seems to be a product of the offense more than his talent.
This run-heavy offense is not permanent
As Fields grows as a quarterback, he will begin to throw the ball more. Once Fields starts to eclipse 30 passing attempts in games regularly, there will be more than enough to go around. This type of offense isn’t meant to be long-term; it is just meant to take pressure off a young quarterback while he still is adjusting to the NFL. Allen Robinson may not be a valuable asset to this current offense, but he will be once Fields matures.
Allen Robinson will be cheaper
As mentioned before, the Bears didn’t want to overpay for Allen Robinson in 2021. The good news is they may not have to sign him this offseason. If the market for Robinson takes a dip, he won’t have the leverage to play hardball. If the Bears can get Robinson on a more manageable deal, they should try to bring him back.