Craig Robertson Saints is a name that often surfaces among devoted fans tracking New Orleans Saints history and legacy. This detailed profile examines his role, impact, and how he fits into the broader story of the franchise.
Below is a structured overview that captures key identifiers, career highlights, and timeline context for Craig Robertson in relation to the Saints organization.
| Name | Craig Robertson |
|---|---|
| Position | Linebacker |
| Team(s) | Cleveland Browns (2013-2016), New Orleans Saints (2017-2019) |
| College | Houston |
| Draft Year | 2013, Round 5, Pick 147 |
| Key Saints Contributions | Special teams reliability, inside linebacker depth, leadership in practice culture |
Craig Robertson and Special Teams Impact
On special teams, Craig Robertson earned a steady reputation for delivering consistent hits and disciplined positioning. His ability to read blockers and make plays in open space allowed the Saints to execute kick and punt coverage with added confidence.
Coaching Style Under Defensive Coordinator Dennis Allen
Defensive coordinator Dennis Allen emphasized alignment discipline and gap control, which suited Robertson's instincts and technique. This alignment helped him transition cleanly between run fits and pass coverage responsibilities on special teams.
Defensive Line and Linebacker Depth
Craig Robertson provided valuable depth at linebacker behind starting edge rushers, allowing the Saints to maintain a high level of practice intensity and in-game readiness. His versatility enabled creative defensive schemes that could disguise coverages from opposing offenses.
Run Support and Tackling Fundamentals
Inside linebacker duties relied on his pad level, pursuit angles, and safe tackling, which minimized yards after contact and kept drives alive for the Saints' defensive front.
Contract, Roster Moves, and Team Culture
Over his tenure with New Orleans, Craig Robertson navigated roster fluctuations and contributed to a locker room culture rooted in accountability and continuous improvement. His presence on special teams often stabilized situational football during tight contests.
Leadership in Practice and Film Study
Veteran leadership from Robertson helped younger players grasp coverage rotations, gap rules, and assignment adjustments, which strengthened overall unit cohesion during preseason and regular season.
Career Highlights and Legacy
While not a marquee star, Craig Robertson carved a niche defined by reliability, preparation, and steady performance within a competitive division. His time with the Saints reflects a journeyman path many role players follow to support long-term team success.
Key Takeaways for Saints Fans
- Craig Robertson brought veteran presence and special teams reliability to the Saints.
- He thrived in a structured coverage scheme under Dennis Allen's defensive philosophy.
- His consistency helped stabilize depth at linebacker and on coverage units.
- Leadership in practice and film study benefited younger teammates and unit cohesion.
FAQ
Reader questions
What role did Craig Robertson play for the New Orleans Saints?
Craig Robertson served as an inside linebacker and special teams contributor for the Saints, providing depth, tackling reliability, and consistent special teams execution.
How long did Craig Robertson play with the Saints?
Craig Robertson spent three seasons with the New Orleans Saints, from 2017 through 2019.
What made Craig Robertson valuable on special teams?
His disciplined coverage angles, precise hits, and ability to read blocking schemes made him a dependable asset on kick and punt coverage units.
Did Craig Robertson start games for the Saints?
He primarily served as a depth linebacker and rotational contributor, earning steady playing time on special teams rather than as a full-time starter.