LAKE FOREST, Ill. (670 The Score) — In his NFL debut two years ago, then-rookie Bears pass rusher Dominique Robinson recorded 1.5 sacks and showcased his raw potential.
Since then, Robinson hasn’t racked up the type of production that early September day at Soldier Field suggested might come. He has recorded just a half-sack in playing 27 games since then and has had a diminished role on the Bears' defense.
But Robinson also understands what he has been up against in his first two NFL seasons. As a rookie, he was trying to figure it out on the fly and needed development.
“Back then, I didn’t even know what I was doing,” Robinson said in reflecting recently on his rookie season. “I was just playing natural and doing whatever I could do at the time. Now, I actually know what I’m doing. I have a good feeling for the game in this position.”
A fifth-round pick of the Bears in 2022, Robinson was an intriguing developmental player out of Miami (Ohio). In college, he converted from quarterback to wide receiver and then eventually to defensive end.
Growing acclimated to a pass rushing role in the NFL was an adjustment for Robinson. That was reflected in his game over his first two NFL seasons.
Entering this training camp, the 26-year-old Robinson was in jeopardy of being cut by the Bears. Instead, he earned a roster spot as well as the faith of head coach Matt Eberflus and his staff.
The Bears believe Robinson is poised for a breakout season, and he feels the differences in his game.
“A little more confidence,” Robinson said. “A little more repetition at throwing a move anytime, angles, knowing where I’m at on the field, whether I’m too far behind the quarterback or I have enough space to make this move or not. It’s a bunch of stuff combined.
“I’ve come such a far way from (being a rookie), it’s crazy. The production hasn’t shown for it, but I'm way better now.”
Robinson’s growth has come as the Bears have weighed their options for a complement opposite of Pro Bowl defensive end Montez Sweat. DeMarcus Walker, Darrell Taylor, Austin Booker and Daniel Hardy are others who are set to factor into the pass rush rotation.
But over the last two years, Robinson has been working carefully at his craft with the hope of reaching this point.
“He’s got the makeup, the size, the length and the knowledge of the game,” Sweat said. “He has all the intangibles to be a good D-end in this league.”
The Bears' opener Sunday at Soldier Field will feel like another debut for Robinson, who's ready to showcase his improved form. Nowadays, Robinson knows what he’s doing and is ready to prove it.
“Comfort grows with the years,” Robinson said. “The reps you get and being more comfortable in a position.
“I’m finally feeling like, ‘All right, I can do this.’”
Injury report
Bears receiver Keenan Allen (heel), defensive end Montez Sweat (toe), defensive end DeMarcus Walker (groin), defensive tackle Zacch Pickens (groin), running back Roschon Johnson (toe) and tackle Kiran Amedgadjie (quad/oblique) were all limited in practice Thursday. Offensive lineman Ryan Bates (shoulder) was a full participant, while tight end Marcedes Lewis had a veteran's day off.
The Bears will release their game designations Friday.
Chris Emma covers the Bears, Chicago’s sports scene and more for 670TheScore.com. Follow him on Twitter @CEmma670.