Former Detroit Lions receiver Allen Robinson has spent the last 16 weeks of the regular season in free agency searching for a new landing spot. The veteran receiver has been unemployed for the first time since joining the league back in the 2014 season. The pass-catcher has bounced around the league, spending time with the Jaguars, Chicago Bears, Los Angeles Rams, Pittsburgh Steelers, New York Giants, and Lions, and now finds himself in unfamiliar territory.
Robinson spent the 2024 season with the Lions in a reserve role, only being targeted seven times all season, totaling 30 receiving yards. Still, this hasn't stopped him from wanting to chase former Detroit offensive coordinator Ben Johnson. The receiver commented on whether or not he would return to the league and helped a banged-up Chicago Bears receiver depth chart, per 670 The Score's Mark Grote.
"I am. I do have familiarity with Ben Johnson’s offense," Robinson said when asked if he'd be willing to join the Bears. He added that all it would take was one call from Johnson and former Detroit/current Chicago WRs coach Antwaan Randle El to convince him.
Ex-Lion Allen Robinson Pleas to Join Ben Johnson's Bears
For the Lions, this really isn't a huge concern when you look at the current rosters and playoff picture. As great as he once was, Robinson is no longer a 1,000-yard needle-mover. He showed last season in Detroit that his best days are behind him, and the only reason why the Bears would be interested in a reunion is that their WR room is seriously banged up. Top wideouts Luther Burden III and Rome Odunze are both sidelined, opening the door for an unexpected contributor.
Given that the Lions already boast the likes of Jameson Williams, Amon-Ra St. Brown, Kalif Raymond, and Isaac TeSlaa, it's easy to see why Robinson isn't pleading for a Motor City reunion. While Detroit wishes the receiver no ill will, there simply isn't a fit or contributing role open for the receiver.
The Lions also have Tom Kennedy and Dominic Lovett as the final receivers on the depth chart, with both players offering far more upside than Robinson. They've also spent the entire season working with the coaching staff and quarterbacks, potentially giving them a better shot at success with Jared Goff than what Robinson might potentially see.
With Robinson knowing Johnson and Randle El well, joining the Bears (if they're interested) makes the most sense for Robinson. He already spent a chunk of his career in the Windy City and knows the coaches well. If he can capitalize on Chicago's weaker WR depth chart, the NFC East franchise might be willing to run things back in 2026.
But if not, and Robinson proves he has nothing left in the tank, it'll be obvious that the Lions made the right call to move on from him following the 2024 season.