As a redshirt last season, Oregon safety Tyree Robinson became accustomed to wearing a different jersey every week. His role: A scout team player used to benefit the starting offense by portraying the defense they would be facing that week.
In other words, Robinson was an afterthought. But he was never far from the mind of defensive backs coach John Neal.
In high school, Robinson was as much of a star on the basketball court as he was on the football field. With two sports on the the agenda, it was difficult for Robinson to focus on football. Now in college, Robinson is able to focus his skills and athleticism on football.
“He’s been a work in progress,” Neal said regarding Robinson.” The great thing about Tyree is he’s ‘A+’ coachable. He listens, he watches me. Whenever I look at him he’s staring right at me. He takes notes, he’s one of those guys.”
Having talent in Division I college football is just a prerequisite. Robinson thinks redshirting last season allowed him to adjust and realize what it takes to be a great college football player.
“You could be five-star and be all this and all that coming into college but if you’re not studying or getting it down, it’s going to be hard for you to make plays,” Robinson said. “I’m glad I redshirted and I know what I’m doing now. I’m just ready. I have my shot and I’m ready to make the best of it.”
Throughout last year, despite being a redshirt player, Robinson showed flashes of the transformation from raw talent to certified football player. Coaches couldn’t wait to see what he would do the following year.
“Next spring’s going to be huge for those two guys,” former defensive coordinator Nick Aliotti told GoDucks.com about Robinson and his twin brother Tyrell last year. “They’re really, really good athletes. I’d like to have about 30 of them.”
When spring came along, Robinson took full advantage of the opportunity.
“Coach Neal always came to the side and told me to ‘keep working you’re going to have your shot,’” Robinson said. “When spring came, I had my shot. I was running with the ones. You just can’t miss this situation. It doesn’t happen to just everybody.”
Growing up, Robinson would attend football games at Helix High School and wait outside the locker room of current NFL players Reggie Bush and Alex Smith. He’s seen what they’ve become and thinks, with the help of Neal, that he can be the next gem to come out of the southern corner of the golden state.
“I came in, I wanted to play receiver but I listened to coach Neal,” Robinson said. “He knows what’s going to be the best for me. He has the proof for it. He’s put a lot of players in the NFL and I just want to be that next great player that comes from coach Neal’s program. I trust him a lot.”
Mutually, Robinson’s coach thinks he has the ability to join the ranks of the elite people to pass under his tutelage on to the NFL.
“Tyree is a really special athlete right now and he’s zeroing in on being a great safety,” Neal said.
Follow Joseph Hoyt on Twitter @JoeJHoyt