Brian Robiskie Signed by Detroit Lions to Fill Hole Left From Nate Burleson

With the season ending injury to Nate Burleson, the Detroit Lions have decided to add some depth at the wide receiver position. After placing Burleson on the injured reserve list, the team signed four year receiver Brian Robiskie. Robiskie will look to supplement Calvin Johnson, Ryan Broyles, and Titus Young as the Lions key receiving corp.

Robiskie was drafted by the Cleveland Browns in the 2009 NFL Draft. The receiver, from Ohio State University, was taken with the 36^th pick overall, in the second round. Despite being named the “most sure thing in the draft” by ESPN analyst Michael Smith, Robiskie was the seventh wide receiver taken in the draft.

Robiskie signed a deal with the Browns, where he played three seasons in 2009, 2010, and 2011. In his rookie season, Robiskie had seven receptions for 106 yards. The following season, the Browns receiver had his best season with 29 receptions for 310 yards and three touchdowns. In 2011, Robskie only played in six games, where he had three receptions and 25 yards. The Browns receiver recorded six tackles over three seasons playing some special teams.

As a receiver at Ohio State, Robiskie had his best season in 2007 as a junior. In that season, Robiskie caught 55 passes for 935 yards. Robiskie and his 11 touchdowns also helped the Buckeyes advance to the 2008 BCS Championship Game. The Buckeyes lost to the LSU Tigers 38-24 to finish second in the NCAA rankings. Robiskie scored on a five yard pass from quarterback Todd Boeckman during the game. Robiskie’s statistics took a hit his senior year with the addition of freshman quarterback Terrelle Pryor. Robiskie caught 42 passes for 535 yards, while also finding the end zone eight times.

As I mentioned earlier in the week, the loss of Burleson means someone needs to step up on the Lions team. Burleson was responsible for 73 catches and 757 yards in the 2011 season. My pick was Broyles to fill the hole, but Robiskie could see some chances in a four receiver set. Look for Robiskie to try and make a name for himself when called upon.