Greg Robinson has been the butt of many jokes lobbed at the Los Angeles Rams. It's not getting any better for the former No. 2 overall pick.
The offensive tackle was awful his first three seasons, necessitating L.A. to bring in a replacement in 35-year-old Andrew Whitworth. Then the team declined Robinson's fifth-year option and moved him to right tackle. Now, during organized team activities this week, he was demoted to second string, for at least a stint.
Through it all, Robinson is trying to stay positive.
"Whatever opportunities I have, I'm looking forward to my future," he said, via the Los Angeles Times. "Hopefully, it's with the Rams.
"I don't really know how that's going to go, but whatever opportunities come my way, I've just got to take advantage of it."
The "hopefully, it's with the Rams" comment sounds like ominous foreshadowing but jobs aren't won or lost during OTAs. The true indictment will come if Robinson can't beat out Jamon Brown (who took the first-team right tackle reps in his place this week) during training camp.
Robinson admitted he has some ways to go in learning the new position.
"I made a few mistakes that put me down," Robinson said. "But I just look at it as a little fire up under me. I try my best to come out every day and redeem myself."
There is an adjustment period for Robinson learning a new side of the line, and new coach Sean McVay noted the 24-year-old "has shown some good signs." It wasn't enough to keep him with the starting group through non-contact, non-padded OTAs.
With a coaching staff in place that isn't tied to Robinson, the Rams aren't beholden to starting the high draft pick. Robinson's battle to regain and keep a starting spot will be one thing to keep an eye on during training camp this summer. Elsewise, the draft bust could get jettisoned before his rookie contract is up.
