Titans Coach Slams Bears Safety for 'Cheap' Hit on Robinson
Titans head coach Robert Saleh called a hit by Bears safety Xavier Woods on receiver Wan'Dale Robinson 'cheap' during a joint practice. Robinson was evaluated for a concussion but is not believed to have suffered one. Titans guard Peter Skoronski also criticized the hit, saying it was unnecessary in a thud period.
The incident occurred during a joint practice session, a common preseason arrangement where teams scrimmage to prepare for the regular season. Such practices are typically governed by "thud" rules, meaning defenders are expected to make contact without tackling to the ground. Robinson, who signed a four-year, $78 million deal in free agency, had a breakout 2025 season with the Giants, recording over 1,000 receiving yards. Woods, a former Titan, joined Chicago just weeks before this practice, adding an awkward layer to the confrontation between former teammates.
The scuffle that followed the hit underscores the heightened tensions that can arise when teams compete in controlled settings. Robinson walked off under his own power, and while he was checked for a concussion, reports suggest he avoided a serious injury. The Titans' reaction, including from offensive lineman Peter Skoronski, emphasized the expectation of player safety during drills, even as competitive intensity remains high.
This incident highlights the ongoing tension between competitive intensity and player safety in NFL practices, particularly during joint sessions where teams face unfamiliar opponents. The public criticism from a head coach could influence how teams enforce conduct rules in future practices, potentially leading to stricter penalties for dangerous hits. Fans and players may see this as a test of the league's commitment to protecting offensive stars, while defenders might worry about overly restrictive rules. The outcome could shape how teams approach joint practices, balancing physicality with injury prevention.