(670 The Score) Nearly six months after a breakdown in contract negotiations, the Bears tendered the franchise tag on star receiver Allen Robinson on Tuesday.
Robinson's franchise tag is worth $18 million for the 2021 season, but the designation will likely leave their top target frustrated. It was a move that Robinson and his representation expected from the Bears -- but also one he previously suggested he didn't prefer. Receiving the franchise tag prevents Robinson from hitting unrestricted free agency.
"I think everybody knows a little bit on how I feel about that," Robinson previously said of the franchise tag.
"I plead the fifth on that."
Robinson hoped for a long-term extension to be reached long ago, believing the Bears had plenty of time before the 2020 regular season to lock him in. The two sides left off their contract negotiations in late September while still far apart on a deal. Robinson hoped to earn $20 million annually like wide receiver peers in the Cowboys' Amari Cooper and Chargers' Keenan Allen. The Bears wondered whether Robinson could stack consecutive seasons of top production.
Robinson, 27, then hauled in a career-best 102 receptions for 1,250 yards and six touchdowns in 2020, giving him a combined 200 catches over the last two years. He was viewed as one of the best players set to be available in free agency next week.
"We love Allen Robinson," Bears general manager Ryan Pace said recently. "He’s a great player for us. We know that. Not just the player but the teammate, the professional that he is. Again, the franchise tag is an option for us. It doesn’t mean we’re necessarily going to use that. But we want to keep our good players, and Allen is a good player for us."
As part of the franchise tag guidelines, Robinson and the Bears have until July 15 to reach a long-term contract extension. Unlike in their previous negotiations with Robinson's party, Pace and the Bears can operate with more clarity regarding the NFL's salary cap numbers and the makeup of Chicago's roster.
The Bears last used the franchise tag in 2016, when they placed it on top receiver Alshon Jeffery. Coincidentally, he was represented by the same agency as Robinson. The Bears didn't tag Jeffery the following year, allowing him to hit the open market and ultimately sign with the Eagles. Jeffery was reportedly unhappy in Chicago and preferred to play elsewhere.
While Robinson has been frustrated by the contract negotiations with the Bears -- and indicated he would be displeased with the franchise tag -- he also has expressed an openness to remaining in Chicago for the long term.
"I do have a great fondness for this city and for the organization," Robinson said. "But unfortunately, in a situation like this, this isn't the only thing that matters."
Chris Emma covers the Bears, Chicago’s sports scene and more for 670TheScore.com. Follow him on Twitter @CEmma670.