A conversation with Malcolm Jenkins was all it took for Patrick Robinson to make a decision. Once he heard what his longtime friend had to say about the Eagles and the direction the organization is headed, the cornerback was sold.
After putting pen to paper on Friday afternoon, making his one-year deal official, Robinson was ready to start his time in Philadelphia and eager for the opportunity to prove himself.
"I know what type of player (Malcolm) is and what type of locker room he's trying to build," Robinson said to a room full of reporters at the NovaCare Complex. "As far as other teams, me knowing him – that kind of made the decision."
A former first-round pick of New Orleans in the 2010 NFL Draft, Robinson has certainly had ups and downs throughout his career. The cornerback struggled with injuries in the past, one of which ultimately led to his release from Indianapolis earlier this month.
However, this single-season contract gives him the chance to showcase what he's capable of achieving on the field. If able to stay healthy, Robinson believes the sky is the limit. He's still looking to reach his full potential as a player, and this year is his time to accomplish that.
"That's how I'm approaching it," the cornerback said. "Just trying to be the best player I know that I can be and guys that know me, the type of player they think that I can be.
"You got to be dependable. As a coach, you want a guy that's going to be the same player week in and week out – not a great player, then a mediocre, then a great. You want a guy that's going to be the same player week in and week out."
A position of need for the Eagles, adding Robinson to the roster will surely be a help for Philadelphia. Not only does he bring starting experience, but the cornerback can also serve as a veteran leader to the younger players in the locker room.
"I think I bring a guy that can play inside and outside, a lot of athletic ability, but for the most part I'm a guy that's going to lead by example more than vocally," Robinson said. "So, I think that'll be a plus for the young guys."
Robinson sees Philadelphia as a potential long-term landing spot. It's the reason he chose to sign with the Eagles. Now, the veteran's main focus is to compete and contribute in any way he can in the hope of securing a future in the City of Brotherly Love.
He understands if he does that, everything will pan out according to plan.
"(The depth chart) didn't play a big role at all to be honest," Robinson said. "For me as a player, I don't look at the roster or anything like that because I know if I play how I know I can play, I'll be fine."
Go behind the scenes as the newest Eagles arrive at the NovaCare Complex, sign their contracts, and more.