Koren Robinson
Koren Lynard Robinson is an American former professional football player who was a wide receiver for eight seasons in the National Football League. He played college football for the NC State Wolfpack. He was selected by the Seattle Seahawks ninth overall in the 2001 NFL draft, and also played for the NFL's Minnesota Vikings and Green Bay Packers between stints with the Seahawks. He was selected to the Pro Bowl with the Vikings in 2005.
Professional career
Seattle Seahawks (first stint)
The Seattle Seahawks selected Robinson with the 9th overall pick in the 2001 NFL draft, which was acquired along with a first round pick that was used to select Shaun Alexander in a trade that sent Joey Galloway to the Dallas Cowboys.Minnesota Vikings
Robinson was signed by the Minnesota Vikings. He was given a limited role in his time with the Vikings and was named the team's kick returner. Despite it being the first time in his career he had returned kicks, Robinson made the Pro Bowl in 2005.Robinson's time with the Vikings was marred by an incident that took place in, and between, St. Peter and Mankato, Minnesota. In August 2006, Robinson was charged with "A felony charge of fleeing a police officer in a motor vehicle, and misdemeanor charges of driving while intoxicated, reckless driving, careless driving and driving after suspension..." Police reported speeds in excess of 120 MPH during the pursuit and reported Robinson's blood-alcohol concentration as 0.11 after his arrest. The legal BAC in Minnesota at the time was 0.08. Robinson was released by the Vikings 10 days later.
Green Bay Packers
In September 2006, Robinson was signed by the Green Bay Packers, much by the urging of then-quarterback Brett Favre and GM Ted Thompson. Robinson was suspended without pay on October 16, 2006, for a minimum of one year for violating the NFL's substance abuse policy. Robinson worked out with Favre's trainer to stay in football shape. Robinson was reinstated by Commissioner Goodell in October 2007, and he completed the 2007 season with 21 catches for 241 yards and one touchdown. His touchdown came against the Detroit Lions on December 30, 2007.However, the Packers picked two younger receivers in the 2008 NFL draft, creating a logjam at the position. Robinson was deemed expendable, and the Packers released him on May 9, 2008. Packers General Manager Ted Thompson said, "I think a lot of Koren. I'm very proud to be able to see him turn things around. He's a true professional. He helped us in the locker room. He helped the young guys learn to be pros."