Virgil Robinson


Virgil I. Robinson Jr. is a former American football running back in the National Football League for the New Orleans Saints. He also was a member of the Houston Texans / Shreveport Steamer in the World Football League. He played college football at Grambling State University.

Early years

Robinson attended L.B. Landry High School. He accepted a football scholarship from Grambling State University.

Professional career

Robinson was selected by Green Bay Packers in the 2nd round of the 1971 NFL Draft. The Packers acquired that draft pick from the Los Angeles Rams in exchang for running back Travis Williams and a 4th round draft pick. Despite being their 2nd round draft choice, he was cut by the Packers before the 1971 season after attempts to use him at both running back and cornerback during preseason. The New Orleans Saints then signed him off waivers. He played for the Saints as a running back and kick returner in 1971 and 1972. He was placed on the Saints' taxi squad after playing 3 games in 1972. He signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers before the 1973 season but quit the team before playing a regular season game for them.
In March 1974, he was selected by the Jacksonville Sharks in the first round of the WFL Pro Draft. He was later traded to the Houston Texans, which would become the Shreveport Steamer. Robinson ran for 647 yards in his career on 189 attempts, scoring 3 rushing touchdowns. He also caught 27 passes for 156 yards and 1 receiving touchdowns.