Two days. That is how long the Chicago Bears have left to ink a possible long-term extension with star receiver Allen Robinson. Everything to this point suggests it isn’t going to happen. Talks have been called slow. Most believe a deal is unlikely barring a strong 11th-hour push by both sides to get something done.
Robinson sounds like a man fully prepared to gamble on himself this season in hopes of cashing in next year as a free agent. This isn’t the outcome a lot of Bears fans wanted, but it’s the reality. So what happens if this scenario comes to pass? One would imagine the team becomes a heavy favorite to target wide receivers early in the 2022 draft.
Justin Fields is going to need weapons and Darnell Mooney will be their only halfway proven option under contract going into next year. So who are some possible names they could end up targeting in the 2nd or 3rd rounds?
Is Drake London the next great USC WR? pic.twitter.com/0LvbJRKe4G
— PFF College (@PFF_College) June 9, 2021
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Allen Robinson exit puts WR atop Bears list of needs in 2022 draft
Drake London (USC)
You can’t teach size. That may sound cliche these days but it remains true. London is 6’5, which is a premium height for a wide receiver. What makes it even scarier is the guy is also strong. He brokes lots of tackles over the past two years for the Trojans. His 502 yards in just six games last season was proof he is ready to ascend in 2021. While not the fastest guy on the field, it doesn’t really matter with London. He finds ways to get open and if he gets the ball in his hands? Putting him on the ground is going to be a chore.
Garrett Wilson (Ohio State)
Chris Olave is getting all the preseason hype for the Buckeyes and deservedly so. However, Wilson proved to be a big-play threat throughout all of 2020. His 16.8 yards per catch demonstrated his speed and ability to get loose deep. Route running also showed improvements as well. Combine that with strong hands and decent 6’0 size? He has the tools to be a success in the NFL. Reuniting him with Fields seems like an easy decision if the Bears get the chance.
George Pickens (Georgia)
After a tremendous freshman year in 2019 that saw him go for 727 yards and eight touchdowns, many saw Pickens as one of the next big stars in the SEC. Unfortunately, some inconsistent quarterback problems last year hampered his production. Then he tore his ACL in April. So his draft stock is very much in flux. When healthy? The combination of being 6’3 and able to shake coverage off the line of scrimmage make him dangerous. An Allen Robinson type. He would be a worthwhile gamble if he slipped to the 2nd round.
Romeo Doubs (Nevada)
A 6’2 receiver with understated vertical ability. While not a pure burner, Doubs is faster than he looks. Combine that with underrated quickness and he has the makings of a standout pro receiver. He still needs to add some strength to his frame and refine his route running process. Things he can take care of in 2021. He might be a bit overlooked coming from Nevada, but that could be a blessing in disguise for a team like the Bears. Doubs may not play in a high-profile program, but his game speaks volumes.
Jalen Tolbert (South Alabama)
One thing about Ryan Pace is he’s never shy about taking calculated risks on small school prospects if he trusts the talent. Tolbert has skills that jump out on tape. Not only has he shown enough juice to beat defenses deep, but his best traits might be his body control and strong hands. He is so good at going up and getting the football when it’s contested. His concentration to make catches while taking hits shouldn’t be ignored. He’ll have a lot to prove going into the pre-draft process next year.
