The Facts: The Patriots reportedly are not expected to shell out big money for a free agent wide receiver this offseason. But what if a big-name wideout could be had for a cheaper price than expected? That’s likely the only way New England could land Robinson, one of the top names on this year’s wideout market. NBC Sports Boston’s Phil Perry recently reported the Patriots did “plenty of work” on Robinson last year before Chicago placed the franchise tag on him. The Bears declined to do so this year, setting him up to hit free agency, and he again is on New England's radar.

Diehards Line: NFL Media's Mike Giardi on Wednesday reported the Patriots have done “excessive” work on a variety of veteran receivers, including Robinson. ... Why might a player like that be reasonably affordable? Because Robinson wasn’t effective in 2021. With Andy Dalton and rookie Justin Fields handling quarterbacking duties for Chicago, Robinson finished with just 38 catches for 410 yards and one touchdown. All three were career lows, as was his 10.8 yards-per-catch average. But Robinson has been consistently productive throughout his career despite never having even an above-average quarterback. At 6-2, 220 pounds, the soon-to-be 29-year-old is the prototypical No. 1 “X” receiver that New England lacked this season. He’d be a valuable perimeter weapon for Mac Jones and an upgrade on Nelson Agholor, who filled that role in 2021. Robinson also has proved over his career that he can handle a heavy workload (four seasons with 150-plus targets). If other teams don’t view Robinson as the same player at this point in his career, he might not command top-of-the-market money. He wouldn’t be a bargain-bin signing, but there is at least a chance the Patriots could bring him aboard without breaking the bank.