Former Green Bay Packers offensive tackle Tootie Robbins, who played in the NFL for more than a decade, died at the age of 62 after contracting COVID-19.
Robbins, who began his career with the St. Louis/Phoenix Cardinals as a fourth-round pick, before ending his career with the Packers, played in 159 career games.
Former NFL player dies after contacting coronavirus
A fourth-round pick in the 1928 NFL Draft out of East Carolina, Robbins spent the majority of his career with the Cardinals. The 6-foot-5, 303-pound tackle was an anchor on their offensive line before finishing his NFL tenure with a two-year stint in Green Bay.
Robbins’ niece, Lakeisha King, confirmed to Packers News’ Tom Silverstein that her uncle passed away on Sunday not long after he got the coronavirus.
“He contacted COVID and it in return took my uncle’s life,” King said, via email. “But he is in heaven with his mom and dad now. Thank you for remembering my uncle. He is definitely missed.”
Many of Robbins’ former teammates, including Packers legend Leroy Butler, offered their condolences and prayers on social media.
Robbins was with the Cardinals when they moved from St. Louis to Phoenix, later returning to Arizona after his career and living in Chandler, Arizona.
We extend our deepest condolences to Robbins’ family, friends and the NFL world.