Adrian Robinson facts for kids

Adrian Lynn Robinson, Jr. (born November 21, 1989 – died May 16, 2015) was an American football player. He played as a linebacker, which is a key defensive position in football. Adrian was signed by the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2012. He played college football at Temple University.

He also played for several other NFL teams. These included the Philadelphia Eagles, Denver Broncos, San Diego Chargers, and Washington Redskins.

Early Life and High School

Adrian Robinson was born on November 21, 1989, in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. His parents were Adrian Robinson Sr. and Terry. Adrian went to Harrisburg High School.

At Harrisburg High, he was a very talented football player. Scout.com, a website that rates young athletes, called him a "three-star prospect." He finished high school in 2008. During his senior year, Adrian was chosen to play in the Big 33 Football Classic. He was even voted the most valuable player in that game! He also earned "all-state" honors twice. Adrian received offers to play college football from top universities like Temple, Pittsburgh, and Connecticut.

College Football Journey

Adrian chose to attend Temple University. While there, he studied communications.

Playing for Temple University

In 2008, his first year at Temple, Adrian played in all twelve games. He started three of those games as a defensive end.

His second year was outstanding. Adrian was named the MAC Defensive Player of the Year. This is a big award for a college football player! He also received other honors, like being named to the first-team All-MAC. He was also chosen for ESPN.com's All-Non-Automatic Qualifying Team. Adrian continued to be a first-team All-MAC player in his junior and senior years.

He ended his college career with a great performance. This was in the 2011 Gildan New Mexico Bowl, where Temple won 37–15 against Wyoming. This was Temple's first bowl game victory since 1979.

Professional Football Career

After college, Adrian Robinson joined the professional football world.

Pittsburgh Steelers

On April 28, 2012, the Pittsburgh Steelers signed Adrian. He joined them as an undrafted free agent. This means he wasn't chosen in the main NFL draft, but a team still wanted to sign him.

Philadelphia Eagles

On August 23, 2013, the Steelers traded Adrian to the Philadelphia Eagles. This trade involved another player, running back Felix Jones. Adrian was released by the Eagles on August 30, 2013.

Denver Broncos

The very next day, on September 1, 2013, the Denver Broncos picked up Adrian. However, he was waived by the Broncos on October 15, 2013.

San Diego Chargers

On November 12, 2013, the San Diego Chargers signed Adrian. He was released by the Chargers on December 7, 2013.

Washington Redskins

Adrian was then signed by the Washington Redskins on December 24, 2013. He was waived by them on August 24, 2014.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

On September 10, 2014, Adrian was signed to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' practice squad. He was released by the Buccaneers on September 23, 2014.

Hamilton Tiger-Cats (CFL)

Adrian signed with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats on April 27, 2015. This team plays in the Canadian Football League (CFL).

Later Life

Adrian Robinson passed away on May 16, 2015. He is remembered by his daughter, Avery Marie.

On October 14, 2015, Adrian's family shared some news. They announced that doctors had found he had a brain condition called chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). This condition is sometimes found in athletes who have experienced many head impacts over time.