George "Duke" Robinson (born October 10, 1986) is an American former professional football player who was a guard in the National Football League (NFL). Robinson played college football for the Oklahoma Sooners, earning consensus All-American honors in 2007 and 2008. He was selected by the Carolina Panthers in the fifth round of the 2009 NFL draft.

Early life

Robinson was born in Atlanta, Georgia. He played high school football at Washington High School in Atlanta.

College career

Robinson attended the University of Oklahoma, where he played for coach Bob Stoops's Oklahoma Sooners football team from 2005 to 2008. He was recognized as a consensus first-team All-American a junior in 2007, becoming Oklahoma's 143rd All-American, and again as a senior in 2008. He was also a two-time first-team All-Big 12 selection. Sports Illustrated magazine named him to its All-Decade Team in 2009.

Professional career

2009 NFL Draft

Robinson was considered the number one guard prospect by many NFL scouting analyst and projected to go 2nd round of the draft until a poor performance in the BCS championship game prior to the draft. He was praised for his leadership, his ability to pass protect and be a force in the running game.

Carolina Panthers

Duke was selected in the fifth round of the 2009 draft with the 163rd overall pick by the Carolina Panthers.

Tennessee Titans

Duke Robinson was signed to the Titans on January 6, 2012. He was then released on April 20, 2012.

Utah Blaze

Duke signed with the Utah Blaze of the Arena Football League on May 6, 2013.

Spokane Shock

Robinson was assigned to the Spokane Shock after the AFL dispersal draft on September 6, 2013.

Philadelphia Soul

On May 28, 2014, Robinson was traded by the Shock to the Philadelphia Soul for Fred Shaw.

San Jose SaberCats

On June 2, 2014, Robinson was traded to the San Jose SaberCats for Julius Williams.

Jacksonville Sharks

On March 21, 2016, Robinson was assigned to the Jacksonville Sharks.

Portland Steel

On April 25, 2016, Robinson was traded to the Portland Steel for Jamar Howard.

Personal life

He is the grandnephew of singer/songwriter Smokey Robinson.