Bears Rumors: Robert Quinn Not Expected to Attend Mandatory Minicamp

Chicago Bears defensive end Robert Quinn reportedly is expected to skip the organization's mandatory minicamp, which gets underway Tuesday.

Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network reported Quinn, who's been the focus of trade rumors throughout the offseason, is "away from the team training on his own."

The 32-year-old three-time Pro Bowl selection is coming off a 2021 campaign where he recorded 49 total tackles, 18.5 sacks and four forced fumbles in 16 appearances. His sack total ranked second in the NFL behind the Pittsburgh Steelers' T.J. Watt (22.5).

Chicago has undergone a significant roster overhaul during the offseason, however, including the trade of superstar outside linebacker Khalil Mack to the Los Angeles Chargers.

In April, Quinn said he was surprised his edge-rushing partner got moved, but expressed his desire to remain with the Bears.

"I didn't expect to go anywhere, or want to go anywhere, but again, this is a crazy business," Quinn told reporters.

The UNC product is sure to attract a lot of attention if he's available on the trade market leading up to training camp thanks to his 101 sacks in 156 career games.

Quinn has three seasons left on his five-year, $70 million contract, which includes a $17.1 million salary-cap hit for 2022.

The combination of his high-end production last year and the multiple years of team control should give the Bears ample leverage in potential trade talks despite the substantial cap hit.

Meanwhile, it's unclear whether the Bears gave Quinn an excused absence from the minicamp because of the ongoing trade speculation, similar to the Cleveland Browns with quarterback Baker Mayfield.

It'll be best for all parties involved if the situation is finalized—either with a deal or confirming he'll return for the 2022 season—before camp gets underway in July.