Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
It has been rumored for several months as the senior wideout decides to walk away from the game.
Unfortunately, we will not be able to witness Corey Robinson juggling the duties of Senior Class President while playing on the football team. On Wednesday the rising senior made public his decision to retire from the game of football.
Senior Corey Robinson will not play for the Irish in 2016, but will continue to serve as a leader for the program. pic.twitter.com/gua4JOJWot
— Notre Dame Football (@NDFootball) June 15, 2016
Statement from Brian Kelly on Corey Robinson not playing this fall. pic.twitter.com/fvHPpATXgD
— Irish Illustrated (@PeteSampson_) June 15, 2016
Corey, the son of NBA Hall of Fame basketball star David Robinson, came to Notre Dame as a high 3-star who wasn’t expected to contribute early in his career and was very much living in the shadow of his father’s fame. However, Robinson forced his way on to the field as a true freshman making a big impact with 54 yards on 3 receptions in a big win over Michigan State in 2013.
Robinson blossomed as a sophomore catching 40 passes and hauling in 5 touchdowns. His best game came in Tallahassee when he totaled 8 receptions and a career-high 99 yards which was largely the impetus for some 1st-round Draft talk going into last season.
Sadly, the injuries were too much to deal with as it seemed as though Robinson was always banged up whether it be concussion problems, a broken thumb, or other nagging ailments. His development slowed considerably as a junior with only 16 receptions before missing the last 3 weeks of spring ball earlier this year with another concussion.
It’s too bad Robinson couldn’t continue his football career but he is bound to stay in the spotlight this year and as an alum. The sky is the limit for his future off the field and it’s very likely that his football career becomes but a small footnote to a long and successful life in the career of his choosing.
The loss of Robinson is a bit of a blow to the depth chart as the Irish move down to 8 wideouts on scholarship and just 5 non-freshmen receivers.
The news should be music to the ears of C.J. Sanders–ahead of schedule coming off hip surgery–as he should get much more time in the slot as the multi-dimensional Torii Hunter will have to stay outside more often. Also the likes of Equanimeous St. Brown and Miles Boykin should see their playing time increase.