Allen Robinson, Wide Receiver

The Bears’ top free agent acquisition is slated to make his preseason debut against the Broncos on Saturday. Robinson is expected to return to the field for the first time since suffering a torn ACL in the opening weekend of 2017.

The Penn State product couldn’t be more excited to strap up in Denver this weekend.

“It’s something I’m ready for and excited for,” Robinson told the Chicago Sun-Times on Sunday. “It’s been awhile. I’ve put the work in every day, trying to get better and perfect my craft.”

Nagy’s staff eased Robinson back into action during training camp. Despite the unknown that comes with an ACL tear, the Bears front office gave Robinson a three-year deal that includes $18 million in guaranteed money, with $42 million in earnings potential via free agency this offseason.

At 6-foot-3, 211 pounds, the Bears are betting on the big-bodied receiver returning to the Pro Bowler that Robinson was prior to suffering the knee injury. In his first four professional seasons, Robinson tallied 202 receptions for 2,848 yards and 22 touchdowns. Robinson has averaged 14.1 yards per catch in his young career, and he did so with a quarterback that was often mediocre in Blake Bortles. Robinson’s breakout campaign came in 2015 when Robinson brought in 80 receptions for 1,400 yards and 14 touchdowns. Heading into his age 25 season, Chicago is confident in Robinson’s playmaking abilities moving forward.

There are a few things to watch for during Robinson’s Bears debut. His overall comfort while cutting in-and-out of routes is key to Robinson’s success. How Robinson handles getting off of the press is another thing to watch. Part of what makes Robinson so dangerous is his abilities to release to the outside, and then separate using his unique blend of size and athleticism. He needs to feel comfortable pushing off that ACL while leaping for jump balls or cutting out of routes.

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