The Eagles acquired linebacker Adrian Robinson from the Pittsburgh Steelers in exchange for running back Felix Jones, who was fourth on the running backs depth chart. At 6-foot-1 and 250 pounds, Robinson was a 2012 undrafted free agent signing who transitioned to 3-4 outside linebacker after playing defensive end for the Temple Owls. He played in 12 games as a rookie for the Steelers last season on special teams.
In the 2013 preseason, Robinson had logged four tackles and recovered a fumble in the end zone for a touchdown against the New York Giants.
Robinson finished his career at Temple with 41 starts (in 50 games played), 156 total tackles (92 solo), 33.5 tackles for loss, 22.5 sacks, 8 forced fumbles, 1 fumble return touchdown, 2 interceptions, 4 pass breakups and 3 kicks/punts blocked. He was a 2009 and 2011 first-team All-MAC honoree and won the MAC Defensive Player of the Year award in 2009.
Coming out of college, Robinson was viewed as an effective pass rusher who could really get after the quarterback with good instincts, burst, bend around the edge, a smooth spin move, non-stop motor and penchant for forcing fumbles. He has showcased those same skills at the NFL level and carved out a niche as a pass-rush specialist. Robinson will provide depth for the Eagles at the outside linebacker position following the knee injury to Phillip Hunt.
Robinson made his initial mark by playing well in Training Camp and preseason for the Steelers in 2012. His coaches took notice, with linebackers coach Keith Butler heaping praise on the rookie.
"He really worked hard trying to learn the defense and cut down on his mistakes. In my mind, he had a big desire to improve his game and learn the position," Butler said. "He gave people problems that were a little bigger than him. He had a good spin move on the inside."
Robinson made positive impressions on his coaches at Temple, as well. Prior to the 2010 season, head coach Al Golden gushed about Robinson's passion and competitiveness.
"He has a great passion for the game. I don't think there is anybody who loves the game of football more than Adrian," Golden said. "He loves the competition ... the greater the competition, the greater is his motor and attitude. He is relentless."
Steve Addazio, Robinson's head coach at Temple in 2011, raved about Robinson's character.
"Without a doubt, Adrian Robinson is truly one of the finest young men I have ever had the pleasure to coach," Addazio said. "Adrian has been the quintessential role model for our program and has set the standard for which all players should follow."
Robinson, a Harrisburg, Pa. native, played his collegiate home games with Temple at Lincoln Financial Field. He now returns to Philadelphia and will look to earn his way onto the Eagles' 53-man roster.
RT to welcome Adrian Robinson (@CuatroTres) to Philadelphia. pic.twitter.com/msPhCjfWEA — Philadelphia Eagles (@Eagles) August 23, 2013
