How Allen Robinson’s franchise tag affects Bears salary cap in 2021

While it doesn’t come as much of a surprise, the Chicago Bears aren’t expected to sign star wide receiver Allen Robinson to a long-term extension before Thursday’s deadline for franchise-tagged players.

With the Bears and Robinson not coming to terms on a new deal, Robinson will play under the franchise tag in 2021, before hitting free agency in 2022.

But how does Robinson’s franchise tag affect Chicago’s salary cap?

Robinson is due to make $17.9 million in 2021, which is the second-highest cap hit among wide receivers in 2021, behind only Dallas’ Amari Cooper at $22 million. Robinson carries the latest cap hit on the Bears with edge rusher Robert Quinn ranking second at $14.7 million. Not only would a contract extension keep Robinson in Chicago for the next few years, but it would also help lower his cap hit in 2021.

General manager Ryan Pace hasn’t been afraid to reward players with contract extensions in the past, and there’s no one more deserving than Robinson, who has more than earned a second contract with the Bears. Robinson has posted back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons, where he’s been dominant despite inconsistent quarterback play. Which is why many are questioning Pace’s reluctance to re-sign Robinson, especially after he raved about Robinson’s importance to this offense.

While the Bears could tag Robinson again in 2022, it would cost them around $22 million. At this point, if the two sides aren’t able to negotiate a long-term deal between now and the start of the season, Robinson will likely play his last season in Chicago. Which isn’t encouraging given the Bears just drafted their quarterback of the future in Justin Fields.