Laying claim to one of the league’s most disappointing rushing attacks, the Green Bay Packers are looking for a boost. According to Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network, the Packers are signing former standout running back James Robinson.
After going undrafted coming out of Illinois State in 2020, Robinson found unlikely immediate success during his rookie season with the Jacksonville Jaguars. Appearing in 14 games, the three-time All-Missouri Valley Football Conference selection amassed 1,414 yards from scrimmage—the most ever by an undrafted player in his rookie season—and scored 10 touchdowns. For his efforts, Robinson was named to the Pro Football Writers of America’s All-Rookie Team.
Despite then-Jaguars head coach Urban Meyer sometimes benching him for issues with fumbling, Robinson appeared in 14 games during the 2021 season but wasn’t as effective as he was the year prior. He gained 989 all-purpose yards and scored eight touchdowns before suffering a season-ending Achilles tendon tear in Week 16.
Robinson returned in time for the start of the 2022 campaign but was traded to the New York Jets midway through the season with Travis Etienne Jr. having established himself as Jacksonville’s lead running back. The 25-year-old running back gained just 85 yards on 29 carries in four games with the Jets.
Following the season, Robinson signed a two-year deal with the New England Patriots but was released due to reported concerns regarding his health. He then signed with the New York Giants and was released before the start of the regular season and has since participated in workouts with the Indianapolis Colts and Baltimore Ravens before signing with the Packers.
In Green Bay, Robinson is expected to provide another option to a Packers rushing attack that currently ranks 27th in rushing yards per game (81.6) and 25th in yards per rush attempt (3.5). Starter Aaron Jones has battled injuries, while backup A.J. Dillon has thus far proven ineffective during the 2023 season.
