EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. – Allen Robinson was released by the Pittsburgh Steelers on March 8, a transaction he calls, "a little surprising."
The veteran wide receiver started every one of Pittsburgh's games last season, including one in the playoffs. Though his numbers were below his career norms, Robinson was a reliable target on a team that cycled through three starting quarterbacks who threw a total of 13 touchdown passes, tied for the NFL's second-lowest total. And the Steelers never discussed with Robinson the possibility of releasing him before they did.
"I know for them, they were doing a lot of changes over there, schematic changes, and different things like that," Robinson said. "So, it was a little surprising. But at the end of the day, it's a part of the business. I've been in this thing now going on 11 years."
And he wasn't prepared to end it. After impressing the Giants in what coach Brian Daboll said was a "good workout," Robinson signed with the Giants, his fifth team, on May 9.
"(He) has been a productive player for a while," Daboll said. "We had good conversations. Ended up choosing to come here. Happy to have him."
"Whenever you can join a culture," Robinson said, "not to mention the Giants organization as far as being a successful place in general - whenever you can step into a culture like that as a football player, that's awesome."
View photos from the career of former Pro Bowl wide receiver Allen Robinson, who recently signed with the Giants.
WR Allen Robinson - Free Agent Signing (May 9)
Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Allen Robinson II (1) catches a pass for a touchdown past Atlanta Falcons cornerback A.J. Terrell (24) during an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 18, 2022, in Inglewood, Calif. (AP Photo/Kyusung Gong)
Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Allen Robinson II runs the ball during an NFL football game against the Atlanta Falcons Sunday, Sept. 18, 2022, in Inglewood, Calif. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)
Chicago Bears wide receiver Allen Robinson (12) celebrates after an NFL football game against the Detroit Lions Sunday, Nov. 11, 2018, in Chicago. The Bears won 34-22. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)
Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Allen Robinson II (1) lines up during an NFL football game against the San Francisco 49ers on Monday, October 3, 2022 in Santa Clara, California. (Ben Liebenberg via AP)
Chicago Bears wide receiver Allen Robinson (12) makes a catch during the second half of an NFL wild-card playoff football game against the Philadelphia Eagles Sunday, Jan. 6, 2019, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)
Chicago Bears wide receiver Allen Robinson (12) celebrates a touchdown with tight end Adam Shaheen (87) during the second half of an NFL wild-card playoff football game against the Philadelphia Eagles Sunday, Jan. 6, 2019, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)
Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Allen Robinson (1) catches a pass against the San Francisco 49ers in an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 30, 2022, in Inglewood, Calif. The 49ers won 31-14. (AP Photo/Jeff Lewis)
Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Allen Robinson II (1) makes a touchdown catch over Carolina Panthers cornerback Donte Jackson (26) during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Oct. 16, 2022, in Inglewood, Calif. (AP Photo/Ashley Landis)
Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Allen Robinson II (1) makes a diving catch asTampa Bay Buccaneers cornerback Carlton Davis III (24) and Tampa Bay Buccaneers linebacker Lavonte David (54) defend during an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 6, 2022 in Tampa, Fla. The Buccaneers defeat the Rams 16-13. (AP Photo/Peter Joneleit)
Wide receiver (1) Allen Robinson of the Los Angeles Rams runs onto the field during player introductions before playing against the Dallas Cowboys in an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 9, 2022, in Inglewood, Calif. Cowboys won 22-10. (AP Photo/Jeff Lewis)
Chicago Bears wide receiver Allen Robinson II (12) runs in front of San Francisco 49ers defensive back Tarvarius Moore (33) and defensive back Antone Exum (38) during the second half of an NFL football game in Santa Clara, Calif., Sunday, Dec. 23, 2018. (AP Photo/Tony Avelar)
Chicago Bears wide receiver Allen Robinson (12) makes a touchdown reception against Philadelphia Eagles free safety Avonte Maddox (29) during the second half of an NFL wild-card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 6, 2019, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)
Chicago Bears wide receiver Allen Robinson (12) plays in an NFL football game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, Monday, Nov. 8, 2021, in Pittsburgh. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)
Chicago Bears wide receiver Allen Robinson (12) plays in an NFL football game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, Monday, Nov. 8, 2021, in Pittsburgh. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Allen Robinson II (11) talks with fans after an NFL football game against the Seattle Seahawks Sunday, Dec. 31, 2023, in Seattle. The Steelers won 30-23. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)
Chicago Bears wide receiver Allen Robinson II (12) during a NFL football game against the Los Angeles Rams, Sunday, Sept. 13, 2021 in Inglewood, Calif. The Rams defeated the Bears 34-14. (John McGillen via AP)
Chicago Bears wide receiver Allen Robinson (12) warms up prior to an NFL football game against the Los Angeles Rams, Sunday, Sept. 12, 2021, in Inglewood, Calif. The Rams won 34-14. (Ben Liebenberg via AP)
Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald, left, talks with Chicago Bears wide receiver Allen Robinson, right, after an NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 23, 2018, in Glendale, Ariz. The Bears defeated the Cardinals 16-14. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
Chicago Bears wide receiver Allen Robinson (12) celebrates with tight end Cole Kmet (85) after a touchdown against the New Orleans Saints in the first half of an NFL football game in Chicago, Sunday, Nov. 1, 2020. (AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast)
Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Allen Robinson II (1) catches a touchdown during an NFL football game against the Carolina Panthers on Sunday, October 16, 2022 in Inglewood, California. (Ben Liebenberg via AP)
Chicago Bears wide receiver Allen Robinson (12) runs during the second half of an NFL football game against the Houston Texans, Sunday, Dec. 13, 2020, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast)
Chicago Bears wide receiver Allen Robinson (12) makes a catch for a touchdown in front of New Orleans Saints cornerback Marshon Lattimore (23) in the first half of an NFL football game in Chicago, Sunday, Nov. 1, 2020. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)
Chicago Bears wide receiver Allen Robinson (12) runs against Detroit Lions defensive back DeShawn Shead (26) during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Nov. 11, 2018, in Chicago. (AP Photo/David Banks)
Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Allen Robinson II (1) prepares in the tunnel prior to an NFL football game against the Carolina Panthers on Sunday, October 16, 2022 in Inglewood, California. (Ben Liebenberg via AP)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Allen Robinson II takes the field before an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers at Acrisure Stadium, Sunday, Nov. 12, 2023 in Pittsburgh. (Winslow Townson/AP Images for Panini)
Chicago Bears wide receiver Allen Robinson (12) plays in an NFL football game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, Monday, Nov. 8, 2021, in Pittsburgh. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)
Chicago Bears wide receiver Allen Robinson (12) runs up field during an NFL football game against the Minnesota Vikings, Sunday, Jan. 9, 2022, in Minneapolis. (AP Photo/Bruce Kluckhohn)
Chicago Bears wide receiver Allen Robinson (12) catches a touchdown pass as Tampa Bay Buccaneers cornerback M.J. Stewart (36) defends him during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 30, 2018, in Chicago. (AP Photo/David Banks)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Allen Robinson II (11) runs down the field after making a catch during an NFL football game against the Indianapolis Colts, Saturday, Dec. 16, 2023, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/Zach Bolinger)
Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Allen Robinson II celebrates after scoring a touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Atlanta Falcons, Sunday, Sept. 18, 2022, in Inglewood, Calif. (AP Photo/Ashley Landis)
Chicago Bears wide receiver Allen Robinson (12) carries the ball while Green Bay Packers cornerback Jaire Alexander (23) attempts to defend during an NFL football game, Thursday, Sep. 5, 2019 in Chicago. (Ben Liebenberg via AP)
Chicago Bears wide receiver Allen Robinson (12) celebrates a touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Sunday, Sept. 30, 2018, in Chicago. (AP Photo/David Banks)
Chicago Bears wide receiver Allen Robinson (12) makes a catch against the Philadelphia Eagles during the second half of an NFL wild-card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 6, 2019, in Chicago. (AP Photo/David Banks)
Chicago Bears wide receiver Allen Robinson (12) carries the ball into the end zone for a two-point conversion during the first half of an NFL football game against the Minnesota Vikings, Sunday, Jan. 9, 2022 in Minneapolis. (AP Photo/Stacy Bengs)
Chicago Bears wide receiver Allen Robinson (12) jumps up for a reception during an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers, Thursday, Sep. 5, 2019 in Chicago. (Ben Liebenberg via AP)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Allen Robinson II (11) is introduced before an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 3, 2023, in Pittsburgh. (AP Photo/Matt Durisko)
Chicago Bears wide receiver Allen Robinson (12) makes a catch against Minnesota Vikings cornerback Trae Waynes (26) during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Nov. 18, 2018, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Allen Robinson II (11) makes a catch against the Cincinnati Bengals during a NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 26, 2023, in Cincinnati. (AP Photo/Jeff Dean)
Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Allen Robinson II, left, catches a pass as San Francisco 49ers cornerback Jimmie Ward defends during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Oct. 30, 2022, in Inglewood, Calif. (AP Photo/Ashley Landis)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Allen Robinson II (11) carries the ball in the second half during an NFL football game against the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday, Nov. 26, 2023, in Cincinnati. (AP Photo/Emilee Chinn)
Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Allen Robinson II (1) leaps to catch a pass over Carolina Panthers cornerback Keith Taylor Jr. (28) during an NFL football game Sunday, Oct. 16, 2022, in Inglewood, Calif. (AP Photo/Kyusung Gong)
Chicago Bears wide receiver Allen Robinson (12) runs with the ball in the fourth quarter during an NFL football game against the Minnesota Vikings, Sunday, Dec. 20, 2020, in Minneapolis. The Bears defeated the Vikings 33-27. (AP Photo/David Berding)
Chicago Bears wide receiver Allen Robinson rushes during the first half of an NFL football game against the Detroit Lions, Thursday, Nov. 28, 2019, in Detroit. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Allen Robinson II is introduced before an NFL football game against the Cleveland Browns in Pittsburgh, Monday, Sept. 18, 2023. (AP Photo/Matt Freed)
FILE - Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Allen Robinson II (1) jogs back to the locker room after an NFL football game against the Carolina Panthers on Oct. 16, 2022, in Inglewood, Calif. The Rams are in the process of trading Robinson and a seventh-round to Pittsburgh in exchange for a seventh-round pick, according to a source with knowledge of the pending agreement. The deal is pending Robinson passing a physical in Pittsburgh on Wednesday, April 19, 2023. (AP Photo/Kyusung Gong, File)
Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Allen Robinson II celebrates his touchdown reception against the New Orleans Saints in the first half of an NFL football game in New Orleans, Sunday, Nov. 20, 2022. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)
Chicago Bears' Allen Robinson (12) avoids the tackle of Houston Texans' Justin Reid (20) during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 13, 2020, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast)
Chicago Bears wide receiver Allen Robinson (12) makes a catch against Houston Texans cornerback Keion Crossen (35) during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 13, 2020, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Kamil Krzaczynski)
Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Allen Robinson II (1) runs with the ball past Carolina Panthers linebacker Damien Wilson (57) during an NFL football game Sunday, Oct. 16, 2022, in Inglewood, Calif. (AP Photo/Kyusung Gong)
Chicago Bears wide receiver Allen Robinson (12) pulls in a reception against the Detroit Lions during the second half of an NFL football game in Chicago, Sunday, Nov. 10, 2019. (AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast)
Chicago Bears wide receiver Allen Robinson (12) makes a touchdown reception against Tampa Bay Buccaneers cornerback M.J. Stewart (36) during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 30, 2018, in Chicago. (AP Photo/David Banks)
From left, Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Ben Skowronek (18), wide receiver Allen Robinson II (1), and wide receiver Cooper Kupp (10) celebrate Robinson's touchdown during an NFL football game against the Atlanta Falcons Sunday, Sept. 18, 2022, in Inglewood, Calif. (AP Photo/Kyusung Gong)
Chicago Bears wide receiver Allen Robinson (12) makes a catch against Oakland Raiders free safety Karl Joseph (42) and cornerback Gareon Conley (21) during the first half of an NFL football game at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, Sunday, Oct. 6, 2019, in London. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)
Chicago Bears wide receiver Allen Robinson II (12) catches the ball during an NFL football game against the Chicago Bears, Sunday, Sept. 13, 2020 in Detroit. The Bears defeated the Lions 27-23. (Zachary Silver via AP)
Chicago Bears wide receiver Allen Robinson (12) makes a touchdown reception against Oakland Raiders cornerback Gareon Conley (21) during the second half of an NFL football game at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, Sunday, Oct. 6, 2019, in London. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)
Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Allen Robinson II (1) makes a touchdown catch over Carolina Panthers cornerback Donte Jackson (26) during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Oct. 16, 2022, in Inglewood, Calif. (AP Photo/Ashley Landis)
Chicago Bears wide receiver Allen Robinson (12) makes a catch as he beats Arizona Cardinals defensive back Tre Boston (33) and Jamar Taylor (28) during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 23, 2018, in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Ralph Freso)
Chicago Bears wide receiver Allen Robinson (12) plays in an NFL football game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, Monday, Nov. 8, 2021, in Pittsburgh. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)
Chicago Bears wide receiver Allen Robinson (12) pushes off New Orleans Saints cornerback Eli Apple (25) after catch during the second half of an NFL football game in Chicago, Sunday, Oct. 20, 2019. The Saints defeated the Bears 36-25. (AP Photo/Mark Black)
Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Allen Robinson (15) is covered by Baltimore Ravens cornerback Shareece Wright (24) as he leaps and catches a third quarter pass for a touchdown that cuts the Baltimore Ravens lead to 16-14 during the 2016 NFL week 3 regular season football game against the Baltimore Ravens on Sunday, Sept. 25, 2016 in Jacksonville, Fla. The Ravens won the game 19-17. (Paul Spinelli via AP)
Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Allen Robinson (15) makes a catch in front of Tennessee Titans cornerback Coty Sensabaugh (24) for a 38-yard gain during the first half of an NFL football game in Jacksonville, Fla., Thursday, Nov. 19, 2015.(AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)
Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Allen Robinson (15) catches a 1-yard touchdown pass as he is defended by Tennessee Titans defensive back Perrish Cox (29) in the second half of an NFL football game Sunday, Dec. 6, 2015, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/Mark Zaleski)
Jacksonville Jaguars receiver Allen Robinson (15) celebrates his touchdown catch with 4:52 to play in the third quarter against the Tennessee Titans in an NFL Game Sunday, Dec. 6, 2015, in Nashville, TN. (Rick Wilson via AP Images)
Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Allen Robinson (15) makes a catch in front of Cleveland Browns cornerback Joe Haden (23) during the first half of an NFL football game in Jacksonville, Fla., Sunday, Oct. 19, 2014.(AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)
Jacksonville Jaguars receiver Allen Robinson (15) hauls in a touchdown catch with 4:59 to play in the third quarter against the Baltimore Ravens Sunday, September 25, 2016, in Jacksonville, Fl. (Rick Wilson/via AP Images)
Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Allen Robinson (15) pulls in a catch in front of Tennessee Titans cornerback Coty Sensabaugh (24) during the second quarter of an NFL football game Thursday, Nov. 19, 2015, in Jacksonville, Fla. (AP Photo/Brian Blanco)
Jacksonville Jaguars' Allen Robinson (15) catches a pass over Buffalo Bills' Corey White (30) during the first half of NFL football game Sunday, Nov. 27, 2016, in Orchard Park, N.Y. (AP Photo/Bill Wippert)
Jacksonville Jaguars receiver Allen Robinson (15) enters the tunnel with his finger raised. Robinson had two touchdown catches during the Jags 23-20 victory against the Miami Dolphins in an NFL game, Sunday, Sept. 20, 2015, in Jacksonville, Fla. (AP Photo/Rick Wilson)
Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Allen Robinson (15) scores a touchdown while being defended by San Diego Chargers inside linebacker Manti Te'o (50) and San Diego Chargers cornerback Patrick Robinson (26) during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 29, 2015, in Jacksonville, Fla. The Chargers defeated the Jaguars 31-25. (AP Photo/Stephen B. Morton)
Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Allen Robinson (15) makes a reception for a 3-yard touchdown pass play in front of Baltimore Ravens cornerback Shareece Wright, right, during the first half of an NFL football game in Jacksonville, Fla., Sunday, Sept. 25, 2016. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)
Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Allen Robinson (15) celebrates on the sidelines after the second half of an NFL football game against the Miami Dolphins, Sunday, Sept. 20, 2015, in Jacksonville, Fla. The Jacksonville Jaguars won 23-20. (AP Photo/Stephen B. Morton)
Jacksonville Jaguars receiver Allen Robinson (15) hauls in a touchdown catch with 4:59 to play in the third quarter against the Baltimore Ravens Sunday, September 25, 2016, in Jacksonville, Fl. (Rick Wilson/via AP Images)
Jacksonville Jaguars receiver Allen Robinson (15) beats San Diego Chargers cornerback Patrick Robinson (26) for an 8 yard touchdown catch with 1:21 to play in the fourth quarter in an NFL Game Sunday, November 29, 2015, in Jacksonville, Fl. (Rick Wilson/AP Photo)
Jacksonville Jaguars receiver Allen Robinson (15) reaches across the endzone for a touchdown despite the efforts of Buffalo Bills cornerback Stephon Gilmore (24) with 14:05 to play in the second quarter, Sunday, Oct. 25, 2015, in London, England. (Rick Wilson/via AP)
Jacksonville Jaguars receiver Allen Robinson (15) hauls in an 8 yard touchdown catch over San Diego Chargers cornerback Patrick Robinson (26) with 1:21 to play in the fourth quarter in an NFL Game Sunday, November 29, 2015, in Jacksonville, Fl. (Rick Wilson/AP Photo)
Jacksonville Jaguars receiver Allen Robinson (15) makes a 3 yard touchdown catch in front of Miami Dolphins cornerback Brice McCain (24) with 9:21 to play in the first quarter in an NFL game, Sunday, Sept. 20, 2015, in Jacksonville, Fla. (AP Photo/Rick Wilson)
Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Allen Robinson (15) high fives fans after defeating the Tennessee Titans 19-13 in an NFL football game in Jacksonville, Fla., Thursday, Nov. 19, 2015. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)
Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Allen Robinson (15) looks up after making a catch for a touchdown in front of Atlanta Falcons cornerback Desmond Trufant, left, during the second half of an NFL football game in Jacksonville, Fla., Sunday, Dec. 20, 2015. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)
Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Allen Robinson (15) runs after a catch against the Indianapolis Colts during the first half of an NFL football game in Indianapolis, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2017. (AP Photo/AJ Mast)
Chicago Bears wide receiver Allen Robinson II (12) celebrates catching a touchdown pass by throwing the ball into the stands during an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 30, 2018 in Chicago. (Greg Trott via AP)
Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Allen Robinson (15) catches an 11-yard pass for a touchdown in front of Baltimore Ravens cornerback Shareece Wright during the second half of an NFL football game in Jacksonville, Fla., Sunday, Sept. 25, 2016. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)
Jacksonville Jaguars receiver Allen Robinson (15) catches a 90 yard touchdown pass with 4:49 to play in the third quarter against the New Orleans Saints in an NFL Game Sunday, Dec. 27, 2015, in New Orleans, La. (Rick Wilson via AP Images)
Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Allen Robinson (15) catches a pass in the end zone for a touchdown in front of Houston Texans cornerback Kareem Jackson (25) during the second half of an NFL football game in Jacksonville, Fla., Sunday, Nov. 13, 2016. The Texans won 24-21. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)
Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Allen Robinson (15) catches a 14 yard touchdown pass that cuts the Houston Texans fourth quarter lead to 24-21 while covered by Houston Texans cornerback Kareem Jackson (25) who signals no catch in vain during the 2016 NFL week 10 regular season football game against the Houston Texans on Sunday, Nov. 13, 2016 in Jacksonville, Fla. The Texans won the game 24-21. (Paul Spinelli via AP)
Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Allen Robinson (15) makes a touchdown catch during the first half of an NFL football game against the Kansas City Chiefs in Kansas City, Mo., Sunday, Nov. 6, 2016. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)
Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Allen Robinson (15) catches the ball for a touchdown during the first quarter of an NFL football game against Indianapolis Colts at Wembley stadium in London, Sunday Oct. 2, 2016. (AP Photo/Tim Ireland)
Jacksonville Jaguars receiver Allen Robinson (15) celebrates his 8 yard touchdown catch by firing the football into the wall with 11:52 to play in the fourth quarter against the Tennessee Titans in an NFL Game Sunday, Dec. 6, 2015, in Nashville, TN. (Rick Wilson via AP Images)
Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Allen Robinson (15) beats Tampa Bay Buccaneers cornerback Tim Jennings (28) on a 5-yard touchdown reception during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game Sunday, Oct. 11, 2015, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Brian Blanco)
Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Allen Robinson (15) goes up for a catch as he is defended by Miami Dolphins cornerback Brice McCain, right, during the first half of an NFL football game in Jacksonville, Fla., Sunday, Sept. 20, 2015.(AP Photo/Stephen B. Morton)
Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Allen Robinson (15) spins the football after a reception during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game against the Tennessee Titans Thursday, Nov. 19, 2015, in Jacksonville, Fla. (AP Photo/Brian Blanco)
Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Allen Robinson (15) makes a touchdown catch against the Miami Dolphins during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 20, 2015, in Jacksonville, Fla. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)
Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Allen Robinson (15) celebrates his touchdown catch against the Miami Dolphins with Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Allen Hurns (88) during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 20, 2015, in Jacksonville, Fla. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)
Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Allen Robinson (15) runs through smoke during player introductions before an NFL football game against the Baltimore Ravens in Jacksonville, Fla., Sunday, Sept. 25, 2016. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)
Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Allen Robinson (15) catches a pass in front of Pittsburgh Steelers inside linebacker Sean Spence (51) during the first half of an NFL preseason football game, Friday, Aug. 14, 2015, in Jacksonville, Fla. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)
Jacksonville Jaguars receiver Allen Robinson (15) catches a 90 yard touchdown pass with 4:49 to play in the third quarter against the New Orleans Saints in an NFL Game Sunday, Dec. 27, 2015, in New Orleans, La. (Rick Wilson via AP Images)
Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Allen Robinson (15) avoids a tackle and runs 31 yards with a pass for a go-ahead touchdown during play October 19, 2014 against the Cleveland Browns at EverBank Field in Jacksonville, Florida. The Jaguars won 24- 6. (AP Photo / Al Messerschmidt)
Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Allen Robinson II (1) leaps to catch a touchdown pass during an NFL football game as Carolina Panthers defensive back Donte Jackson (26) defends, Sunday, Oct. 16, 2022 in Inglewood, Calif. The Rams defeated the Panthers 24-10. (Greg Trott via AP)
Chicago Bears wide receiver Allen Robinson II (12) catches a 36 yard touchdown pass good for a 13-0 first quarter Bears lead while covered by Detroit Lions defensive back DeShawn Shead (26) during the NFL week 10 regular season football game against the Detroit Lions on Sunday, Nov. 11, 2018 in Chicago. The Bears won the game 34-22. (Paul Spinelli via AP)
Chicago Bears wide receiver Allen Robinson II (12) celebrates his touchdown catch during an NFL game against the New York Giants, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019 in Chicago. The Bears defeated the Colts 19-14. (Greg Trott via AP)
Chicago Bears wide receiver Allen Robinson II (12) catches a 36 yard touchdown pass good for a 13-0 first quarter Bears lead while covered by Detroit Lions defensive back DeShawn Shead (26) during the NFL week 10 regular season football game against the Detroit Lions on Sunday, Nov. 11, 2018 in Chicago. The Bears won the game 34-22. (Paul Spinelli via AP)
Chicago Bears wide receiver Allen Robinson (12) pulls in a touchdown reception late in the game as Indianapolis Colts cornerback Isaiah Rodgers (34) defends, Sunday, October 4, 2020 in Chicago. The Colts beat the Bears 19-11 (Todd Rosenberg via AP)
Robinson has been one of the NFL's most productive receivers of the last decade (four seasons each with Jacksonville and Chicago and solo seasons with the L.A. Rams and Pittsburgh). Robinson's 562 receptions and 7,028 yards place him 20th in both categories among active players entering the 2024 season, and his 43 touchdown catches tie him with Seattle's DK Metcalf for 19th. He has three 1,000-yard seasons and 16 100-yard games (plus one in the postseason) and has caught a career-high 10 passes in a game six times (plus one in the playoffs). Robinson was a 2015 Pro Bowler and the Jaguars' 2019 Walter Payton Man of the year nominee.
"I have so much gratitude and respect and love for the game. I mean, this game has changed my life and changed my family's life," Robinson said. "Every time I step foot on that field, the amount of pride that I come onto the field with each and every day, practice and games, I take it seriously. Like I said before, man, I even think back 11 years ago, just wanting to be able to have a successful career and do some things. To still be in it 11 years later, man, I'm blessed, I'm grateful and I don't take anything for granted."
Many receivers would be happy to take those numbers into retirement, particularly one who turns 31 in August. But after receiving the news he was no longer wanted in western Pennsylvania, Robinson never considered it.
"I knew right away I was playing again," he said. "In my eyes, I know for sure I've got a couple more years in me. Last year, kind of stepping into the season, I wasn't quite 100 percent. I was coming off a foot injury. So, being able to have this offseason to really be healthy and train and do all those things, I knew for sure. There was no doubt for me as far as playing wise."
Robinson's career stat-line of 562 receptions-7,028 yards-43 touchdowns tops the combined total of the Giants' four holdover wideouts – Darius Slayton, Isaiah Hodgins, Wan'Dale Robinson, and Jalin Hyatt – who together have posted numbers of 384 catches, 5,071 yards and 28 scores. Of course, the Giants added a premier wide receiver when they selected LSU's Malik Nabers with the sixth selection in the NFL Draft. And they added veteran free agent Isaiah McKenzie, who has 152 receptions for 1,427 yards and 11 touchdowns in seven seasons.
Robinson enjoys mentoring his younger and less experienced teammates.
"Being able to step into a room with some young guys, man, those guys have always, as I've gotten later in my career, kept me young," Robinson said. "So, I'm looking forward to it and I'm excited.
"I've gone through so many different things in my career from being drafted, traded, franchise tag, injuries, and everything like that. Being able to have the perspective of all those different things and then being able to get around young guys, and really spread my knowledge, spread my experience and really kind of help elevate the young guys each and every day - whenever you're checking those boxes off and helping young guys check those boxes off, you do the same thing for yourself as well."
Robinson has always derived happiness from football, and he exudes joy simply standing in the locker room or at practice. After twice being named Big Ten Receiver of the Year at Penn State, the Jaguars selected him in the second round of the 2014 draft. Robinson set career highs in his second season with 1,400 yards and 14 touchdowns on 80 catches. He moved to Chicago as a free agent in 2018 and in his third year with the Bears caught a career-best 102 passes. Robinson played for the Rams in 2022 and last season caught 34 passes for 280 yards with the Steelers.
Now he is with team No. 5 in a new city and a new group of players.
"It's awesome, man," Robinson said. "It's awesome, because once you've played in the league for a little bit, you do know some guys. You've played with guys, you've played against guys. Coming in today talking to Jalin, he was telling me how he was playing with me on Madden and stuff. You're able to connect with guys quickly. Being able to have that perspective, it's been an easy transition for me stepping into different locker rooms.
"I'm blessed to be able to be around these guys. It's a very talented group. It's been cool. It's been fun."
Given Robinson's history, that's not even a little surprising.
The New York Giants unveiled a "Century Red" uniform to commemorate their 100th season.
ILB Bobby Okereke (58)
T Andrew Thomas (78)
OLB Kayvon Thibodeaux (5)
WR Jalin Hyatt (13), CB Deonte Banks (3)
QB Daniel Jones (8)
ILB Bobby Okereke (58)
WR Jalin Hyatt (13)
T Andrew Thomas (78)
T Andrew Thomas (78)
T Andrew Thomas (78)
T Andrew Thomas (78)
T Andrew Thomas (78)
OLB Kayvon Thibodeaux (5)
T Andrew Thomas (78)
T Andrew Thomas (78)
OLB Kayvon Thibodeaux (5)
OLB Kayvon Thibodeaux (5)
OLB Kayvon Thibodeaux (5)
T Andrew Thomas (78)
OLB Kayvon Thibodeaux (5)
QB Daniel Jones (8)
OLB Kayvon Thibodeaux (5)
ILB Bobby Okereke (58)
ILB Bobby Okereke (58)
T Andrew Thomas (78)
ILB Bobby Okereke (58)
ILB Bobby Okereke (58)
ILB Bobby Okereke (58)
ILB Bobby Okereke (58)
ILB Bobby Okereke (58)
ILB Bobby Okereke (58)
ILB Bobby Okereke (58)
QB Daniel Jones (8)
T Andrew Thomas (78)
QB Daniel Jones (8)
WR Jalin Hyatt (13)
OLB Kayvon Thibodeaux (5), CB Deonte Banks (3)
WR Jalin Hyatt (13)
QB Daniel Jones (8)
WR Jalin Hyatt (13)
WR Jalin Hyatt (13)
CB Deonte Banks (3)
WR Jalin Hyatt (13)
CB Deonte Banks (3)
CB Deonte Banks (3)
CB Deonte Banks (3)
CB Deonte Banks (3)
WR Jalin Hyatt (13)
CB Deonte Banks (3)
QB Daniel Jones (8)
CB Deonte Banks (3)
CB Deonte Banks (3)
CB Deonte Banks (3)
CB Deonte Banks (3)
CB Deonte Banks (3)
CB Deonte Banks (3)
CB Deonte Banks (3)
CB Deonte Banks (3)
CB Deonte Banks (3)
CB Deonte Banks (3), OLB Kayvon Thibodeaux (5)
