In this series, we take a look at 16 players for the San Diego Chargers 25 years of age or younger who could be considered foundational or impact players for this franchise as general manager Tom Telesco and coach Mike McCoy continue Year 3 of developing a sustainable playoff contender.
Player: C/G Trevor Robinson
Age: 24
The skinny: The Chargers signed Robinson off the Cincinnati Bengals’ practice squad on Oct. 7 last year. Robinson signed with Cincinnati in 2012 as an undrafted free agent and played in 13 games, starting seven as a rookie. In 2014, Robinson played in six games for the Chargers, splitting time at center and on special teams. Robinson spent the first five weeks of last year on Cincinnati’s practice squad. He played in 157 snaps on offense for the Chargers last season.
Reason for optimism: At 6-foot-5 and 300 pounds, Robinson was a solid performer at center last season. He could get an opportunity to compete for playing time with fellow Norte Dame product Chris Watt at center. In that scenario, Watt would move to right guard. Even if he doesn’t earn a starting job, Robinson provides depth along the interior offensive line. Robinson signed a two-year deal in free agency to stay in San Diego. “Having really solid role players that we know can step in and play a bigger role if they have to is important, especially with all of the injuries that happen in this league,” Telesco said. “Trevor stepped in and played really solid football at center. He also has a background at guard, so he’s got that versatility which is very big on game day.”
Reason for concern: The Chargers used Robinson to replace more experienced backup centers in Rich Ohrnberger and Doug Legursky, so his development within San Diego’s scheme will be important. Robinson received a negative grade from Pro Football Focus for his performance last season, so that’s something to keep an eye on.
