Rashard

Robinson

Robinson has served two suspensions since entering the NFL in 2017. Both suspensions were for substance abuse and cost him a total of 14 games. This punishment is light compared to his 10-game suspension in 2019 as it’s his first time getting popped for PEDs. Robinson will likely remain on the Dallas roster but was only called up from the practice late into the 2020 season. He’ll still be fighting for a roster spot this summer after logging 20 combined tackles across four appearances last year.

It’s the second time he’s been suspended under the policy. Robinson has value as a sub-package corner, but this obviously hurts his chances of signing. Any team that adds Robinson can stash him on the suspended list, so it’s possible he resurfaces.

WR Stacy Coley and DE Charles Tapper were also handed their walking papers Friday. Acquired from the 49ers for a 2018 fifth-rounder, Robinson was an abject failure during his brief stint in East Rutherford, failing to make any impact whatsoever over his 16 appearances for the team. His Jets tenure also included a four-game ban for violating the league’s substance abuse policy. Still just 23, Robinson could probably benefit from a change of scenery.

Robinson had a drug-related arrest in December, but the four-game ban suggests this may be for a failed test. Robinson made just one start in six appearances after coming over from the 49ers last year. He’ll be eligible to return Week 5 againt Denver.

A fourth-round rookie, Robinson was starting his third straight game with Jimmie Ward sidelined. Keith Reaser is now opposite Tramaine Brock.

Adding injury to insult, Robinson got his lunch money stolen by Mike Evans before going down with the sprain on Sunday. He has no timetable for a return. Robinson also suffered a concussion in Week 6. Built like a stringbeanpole at 6-foot-2, 171, Robinson may not lack the build to hold up in the NFL.

Robinson seemed to be facing a more serious injury after he was carted to the locker room, but he escaped with just a sprain. He should be ready for the offseason program. The fourth-round rookie held his own in 543 snaps and should compete for a starting job in training camp.

Robinson was the 49ers’ lowest-graded cornerback by Pro Football Focus last season, but the new coaching staff likes his size (6'2/171) and intangibles. “He’s a dog. I like him,” said first-year DC Robert Saleh. “He’s made of the right stuff, his attitude, his mindset is unique for a corner.” The 49ers’ secondary will be one to attack in daily fantasy throughout the 2017 season.

That puts him at 181 pounds. Strength has been an issue for Robinson, who managed just five bench press reps at LSU’s Pro Day. Even with the extra weight, Robinson still looks “rail thin,” according to beat writer Matt Barrows. A project, the 49ers shouldn’t be counting on year-one impact from Robinson.

The 2016 fourth-rounder had started 7-of-8 games for the 49ers this season, but struggled mightily, grading out as one of Pro Football Focus’ worst cornerbacks. He was benched for Week 8. The 49ers are stockpiling picks, while the Jets are trying to add some depth to one of the league’s most surprising teams. Robinson could push Darryl Roberts for No. 3 duties in the Big Apple. Buster Skrine has also been struggling.