Key Takeaways:
– Dominique Robinson, once a promising rookie, might be cut from the Chicago Bears.
– The Bears’ recent draft of pass rusher Austin Booker might edge Robinson out of the team.
– Despite a promising rookie season, Robinson’s performance dipped significantly last year.
– The acquisition of Montez Sweat and DeMarcus Walker further puts Robinson’s position in doubt.
Dominant Debut to Potential Cut
Following an impressive rookie season in 2022, Dominique Robinson’s future with the Chicago Bears now appears uncertain. Drafted in the fifth round from Miami (OH), Robinson showcased his talent by featuring in all 17 games of his first season, starting seven of them. Despite registering appreciable statistics that included 30 tackles, two quarterback hits, and 1.5 sacks, he finds himself as one of the likely cut candidates as the team heads into the Organized Team Activities (OTAs).
Reasons for Robinson’s Precarious Position
Robinson’s decline began with a dip in his productivity last season, which was compounded by the Bears’ decision to draft pass rusher Austin Booker this year. In a recent analysis of players who could potentially be cut from various NFL rosters, Bleacher Report writer David Kenyon selected Dominique Robinson as the most likely candidate for the Bears.
Further clouding his future, Robinson’s share of snaps decreased from 50% in his rookie season to 35% in the following year. With the Bears securing deals with both Montez Sweat and Austin Booker, Robinson now finds himself in the fight for a final spot in the edge-rushing rotation.
Another cause for concern is the expected superior standing of veteran DeMarcus Walker on the depth chart. Consequently, Robinson will need to outperform expectations at the training camp and in the preseason to overhaul his current standing.
Reflecting on Robinson’s performance in the previous season, it is revealed that he played only 11 games, finding himself sidelined multiple times. With a less impressive record of 12 total tackles and a mere 0.5 sacks, his situation seems precarious. Robinson would need significant improvements to his game to retain his position, more so if the Bears secure an experienced pass rusher in free agency.
Rookie Pass Rusher Austin Booker – A game-changer?
In contrast to Robinson’s declining fortunes, the Bears have high expectations for rookie Austin Booker. Drafted in the fifth round, many analysts believe Booker’s addition represents a major steal. His energy, agility, and attacking prowess are attributes that have left the team’s staff impressed.
Coach Washington praised Booker’s relentless energy, stating, “He never seems to be out of the play either early or as the play extends with the quarterback, especially as a rusher.”
During the 2023 season, the 6-foot-5, 240-pound Booker played 12 games for Kansas, making 56 total tackles, 8.0 sacks, and two forced fumbles. His hard-to-predict movements and acute sense of timing impressed Coach Washington. The coach also spoke about the focus on fundamentals and physical grit, emphasizing the need for Booker to gain confidence.
As such, Dominique Robinson’s future with the Chicago Bears seems uncertain, with younger, more energetic players like Austin Booker seemingly ready to take up his mantle. It appears that only an exceptional pre-season performance will ensure Robinson’s place in the Bears lineup.