The New England Patriots surprised NFL onlookers by releasing James Robinson on Monday.
Robinson signed a two-year deal with New England in March, but the running back will re-enter the free-agent market. While the announcement caught the NFL world off guard, the rationale isn’t as shocking.
Per The Athletic’s Jeff Howe, the Patriots cut Robinson because of health issues. He reportedly “couldn’t stay on the field” this spring.
A little more context on the Patriots’ release of James Robinson: Injuries were the issue, and the veteran RB couldn’t stay on the field, per source.
— Jeff Howe (@jeffphowe) June 13, 2023
Following a breakout rookie campaign, Robinson suffered a torn Achilles late in the 2021 season. He didn’t look the same last season, averaging 3.9 yards per carry — just 1.2 after contact — in 11 games with the Jacksonville Jaguars and New York Jets.
New England accounted for health concerns by giving Robinson a deal with no guaranteed money. The Patriots moved on despite possessing a thin backfield behind Rhamondre Stevenson.
After Robinson’s release, Evan Lazar wrote on the team site that the 24-year-old’s “lack of explosiveness was noticeable” during organized team activities.