Robinson up to old tricks
KIRKLAND, Wash. – The image that has defined Koren Robinson’s football career has become just as much a part of his off-the-field life.
Once again, Robinson has dropped the ball.
This time, it might finally cost him his job as a Seattle Seahawks receiver.
What could be the final strike came earlier this week, when it was revealed that Robinson had been charged with driving under the influence and reckless driving on May 6. Kirkland Municipal Court papers confirmed that he was in court for an arraignment Tuesday, with a pre-trial date set for July 18.
Prosecuting attorney Russell Joe said Wednesday that Robinson’s blood-alcohol level was tested higher than .15 percent – .07 percent higher than the legal level – but could offer few other details from the case.
“There’s a lot I’d like to say and like to give you,” Joe said, “but at this point I’m not allowed to release anything so that the trial process isn’t tainted at all.”
Robinson, who was not available for comment, pled not guilty to both charges. He was pulled over in Medina on May 6.
While Robinson’s latest indiscretion comes after countless second chances, Seahawks officials have yet to comment publicly on his future with the team. The Seahawks’ only response Tuesday came in the form of a press release.
“We are extremely disappointed and concerned with Koren’s situation,” the Seahawks said in the statement. “We have established several programs, both league- and team-sponsored, to support and help him. We will continue to encourage him to use this support network and believe he should be held accountable for his actions.”
The team already has contingency plans in place, adding experienced veterans Joe Jurevicius and Jerome Pathon during free agency. Both players are viewed as viable starting options should Robinson be released.
Robinson, who turned 25 in March, underwent treatment for substance abuse earlier this spring, and he attended an April minicamp vowing to turn his life around.
“I’m cutting out all the B.S. off the field,” Robinson said on April 30. “I’m focused on my job now, instead of everything else. I’m really thankful for the opportunity. I guess certain things had to happen last year for me to really get it and see that I’m really blessed.”
Robinson’s history of indiscretions goes all the way back to his college days at North Carolina State, when he was suspended from the football team three times for academic reasons. The Seahawks were not scared off by the suspensions, using the ninth overall pick in the 2001 draft on the 6-foot-1 wideout.
But Robinson’s troubles continued into the NFL, leading to a number of team reprimands for chronic tardiness. Things bottomed out last season, when Robinson was suspended four games for violating the NFL’s policy on steroids and substance abuse. Even that suspension failed to wake him up, as Robinson missed a practice before the regular season finale and was subsequently benched.
Notes
Linebacker/defensive end Peter Boulware, who was released by the Baltimore Ravens last month, is expected to visit the Seahawks as soon as tonight. He’s scheduled to meet with the Cleveland Browns this morning. … The Seahawks open an eight-day minicamp on Monday.