Micah Robinson is excited to join the Green Bay Packers and believes he can play multiple roles in Jeff Hafley's defense, but he also casually revealed that he has a family connection on the roster.
Speaking to the media at the Packers' rookie minicamp, a reporter asked the seventh-round cornerback whether he knew anybody on the team. He sure does.
"Malik Willis is actually my cousin," said Robinson. "We're third cousins, to be exact. Second or third. My dad's side."
Nobody expected Robinson to say that. He added that Willis welcomed him to the team in what was their first opportunity to connect for some time.
"It's been a while," said Robinson. "I've been in college going back and forth, from Furman and Tulane. This is my first time seeing him in a while."
Robinson was busy building a college resume to help him get drafted, while Willis was spending his time proving the Tennessee Titans wrong for trading him. Now, they reunite with one common goal: to help the Packers win.
Micah Robinson hopes to become the latest Day 3 cornerback to succeed for the Packers
The Packers have made a habit of waiting until the seventh round to draft a cornerback. Two years ago, they selected Carrington Valentine. Last year, Kalen King became their final pick.
Valentine has already exceeded expectations, starting 19 games in two seasons. He may become an every-week starter this season if Jaire Alexander departs.
Many late-round and undrafted cornerbacks have enjoyed long careers in Green Bay, from Tramon Williams to Sam Shields. We could add Micah Hyde to that list if, you know, the Packers had actually re-signed him after his rookie deal. Hyde became an All-Pro for the Buffalo Bills instead.
Valentine is proof of why draft position doesn't matter. He played so well as a rookie that the Packers felt comfortable trading Rasul Douglas.
Robinson will undoubtedly get an opportunity. The Packers lack depth at cornerback, especially if Alexander leaves, and the rookie could battle for the CB4 spot over the summer.
Reuniting with Willis is poetic. The former Titans quarterback arrived in Green Bay less than a year ago for the same price, a seventh-round draft choice. Willis proved his former team wrong and helped the Packers win three crucial games.
Robinson will hope to make a similar impact to his cousin.