Steelers Now
The road less traveled is a familiar one for Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Mark Robinson.
Once a junior college running back, Robinson has steadily transformed himself into a trusted depth piece on defense and a key contributor on special teams. Now entering his fourth NFL season, the former Ole Miss standout is once again fighting to prove his worth in a crowded linebacker room, a scenario he knows all too well.
This season presents a fresh set of challenges. Robinson will be working under a new position coach, Brian McCurley, and facing roster pressure from rookie Carson Bruener, a seventh-round pick from Washington with a high motor and strong instincts. It’s the kind of uphill climb Robinson has made a career out of conquering.
“Just another opportunity to play the game I love, man,” Robinson told Alan Saunders of Steelers Now. “God blesses us with years and a career, man. Just take advantage of it.”
The Steelers’ inside linebacker group might be the deepest and most talented it’s been in recent years. Patrick Queen, a former first-round pick and Pro Bowler, returns for his second season in black and gold. Payton Wilson, a 2024 third-day draft steal, impressed as a rookie with 78 tackles and strong sideline to sideline range. The team also signed Malik Harrison in free agency, adding further experience to the unit, and veteran Cole Holcomb is expected to return to full health.
That leaves Robinson in a familiar position, fighting for one of the final linebacker spots on the 53-man roster. He currently appears to hold the edge as the fifth linebacker in the rotation, but Bruener’s presence could make for a close call come August.
What gives Robinson an advantage is his special teams résumé. In 2024, he logged more than 300 special teams snaps and carved out a niche as a core player in Danny Smith’s unit, a role that often makes the difference when coaches finalize roster decisions.
If there’s one thing that defines Robinson’s career, it’s resilience. From his days as a converted linebacker at Ole Miss to carving out a roster spot as a seventh-round pick, he’s consistently answered the call.
The climb doesn’t get easier, but Robinson wouldn’t have it any other way.
5-foot-11, 235 pounds, 25 years old, 4th Season
Acquired: The Steelers drafted Robinson out of Ole Miss with the 225th overall pick in the seventh round of the 2022 NFL Draft.
Last Season: While Mark Robinson didn’t make any defensive starts in 2024 and logged just eight snaps on that side of the ball, he found his value on special teams, particularly in the coverage units. He was one of only four Steelers to log more than 300 special teams snaps, finishing the season with six tackles and two forced fumbles.
Career: Mark Robinson has proven to be a reliable depth piece capable of contributing on defense when called upon. In 2023, he logged 151 defensive snaps, finishing the...
