Allen Robinson might have a different perspective on the Chicago Bears quarterback situation than most people. Unlike fans who have eyes on the future with Justin Fields, his focus is entirely on 2021. Both because he wants to win but also the fact he is playing for a massive contract extension. One the Bears have proven reluctant to give him. That makes his relationship with Andy Dalton, the presumptive starter, much more important.
It would be easy for Robinson to be skeptical. Few top-tier wide receivers have had a worse track record at the QB position than him. It started with Blake Bortles in Jacksonville and then moved to Mitch Trubisky and Nick Foles in Chicago. If anybody has earned the right to have reservations, it’s him. By the sound of things though? Robinson is far from a doubter of Dalton. It seems like the two have hit it off quite well.
When asked about the 33-year old?
Robinson cited constant communication as a big positive. Dalton is vocal with Robinson on everything, determining what routes he prefers to run, doesn’t like to run, and how he runs them. This is an effort to build the chemistry and timing between the two of them. The receiver has also developed a quick appreciation for the type of passer Dalton is. What he lacks in pure arm strength he makes up for with accuracy and ball placement. Not to mention his anticipation.
It is easy to get swept away by Fields Fever at training camp this year. The young quarterback has done plenty to elicit excitement about the team’s future. However, that should not discount what Dalton has done. He’s looked more than competent as well. Reminding everybody why he’s started 142 games in the NFL.
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Allen Robinson has continued to maintain professionalism
It’s not like he’s shirking his duties as a team leader amidst the contract frustration. He’s been seen involved constantly with teammates on the field. He still engages the fans at every opportunity. All while continuing to show everybody why he has posted over 1,000 yards each of the past two seasons. It isn’t easy to accept the growing possibility that 2021 will be his last season in a Bears uniform.
Rather unfortunate given that the quarterback situation might finally be turning around for the organization. Dalton, a three-time Pro Bowler, holds the job this year with the ultra-talented Fields waiting in the wings. One would think Allen Robinson might prefer to stick around and build his legacy in Chicago. Unfortunately, his priorities are clear. NFL careers don’t last long. He knows this is his last chance to secure a big contract and he intends to maximize it.
It’s tough but understandable.
Hopefully, the Bears somehow find a way to rescue the situation before it’s too late next March. Until then, everybody is focused on the task at hand. It’s nice to see he and Dalton already forming a strong bond so early in training camp. It bodes well for the season to come. Those two will be critical to the offense’s success.