Former Detroit Lions receiver Allen Robinson has had a fascinating career that has hit a bit of a roadblock this offseason. Remaining a free agent deep into the summer, it's fair to begin to wonder if we're nearing the end of the veteran's career. Starting his career with the Jacksonville Jaguars, Robinson exploded in his second season, finishing with 1,400 receiving yards in a 16-game season. This was an incredible accomplishment that the receiver hasn't come close to replicating in the years since.
Robinson left Jacksonville after the 2017 season and spent time with the Bears, Rams, Steelers, and Lions. The last stop with Detroit continued a recent decline, with the veteran only being targeted seven times and finishing with 30 receiving yards on the season.
It is clear that the once-dominating receiver is at a very different stage of his career. One that demands accepting a depth role on contending teams. Robinson's biggest value is his experience and the insight he can offer young receiver groups. This is a big part of why the Lions brought the veteran in despite having solid options at the position.
Former Lions Receiver Allen Robinson Remains a Free Agent
For the receiver's career to continue, it is going to need to be a similar situation with an up-and-coming team wanting to add a veteran presence. With Detroit's current depth at the position and exciting young options there simply doesn't appear to be a path to a reunion for the two sides. It doesn't make sense to waste a roster spot when you have superior options.
Looking around the league, it doesn't come as a surprise that Robinson has struggled to find a landing spot. The position continues to be arguably the most talented group in the league, with deep options both in free agency and the draft. If Robinson is going to continue his career, it is going to need to be on a deal that simply gets the veteran into preseason action and allows him to prove that there is still something left in the tank.
For the Lions, moving on was the right decision based on the limited upside and having superior options. It was time to turn the page on Robinson, and the receiver remaining in free agency only furthers this point.