Jimmy Joe Robinson, the first Black varsity player in Pitt's history, died July 14. He was 97.
A Connellsville native, Mr. Robinson starred at Pitt in 1945, 1947 and 1948, leading the team all three season in rushing and receiving yards. His trailblazing performances led Pitt to full racial integration of the football program after his final season.
In a team statement, head coach Pat Narduzzi said, "Jimmy Joe didn't just wear the uniform—he wore the weight of history, and he carried it with strength and grace. He helped change this program forever."
Mr. Robinson was drafted by the Browns in the third round of the 1950 NFL draft, was signed and released. After serving in the Korea War, Mr. Robinson was signed by the Steelers in 1953, but was released without ever playing an NFL game. He was then signed and released by the Montreal Alouettes in 1953 and 1954,
Following his playing career, Mr. Robinson became a minister. Reverend Robinson became active in the civil rights movement and promoted education in Pittsburgh's Manchester neighborhood, founding the Manchester Youth Development Center in 1968. It is still in operation.
Former Pitt linebacker SirVocea Dennis narrated a tribute video for the Panthers:
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THE ASYLUM
Bob Maddamma
7:59 am - 07.17.2025rochester, n.y.Football: Trailblazing icon Robinson dies
Jimmy Joe Robinson, the first Black varsity player in Pitt's history, died July 14. He was 97.
A Connellsville native, Mr. Robinson starred at Pitt in 1945, 1947 and 1948, leading the team all three season in rushing and receiving yards. His trailblazing performances led Pitt to full racial integration of the football program after his final season.
In a team statement, head coach Pat Narduzzi said, "Jimmy Joe didn't just wear the uniform—he wore the weight of history, and he carried it with strength and grace. He helped change this program forever."
Mr. Robinson was drafted by the Browns in the third round of the 1950 NFL draft, was signed and released. After serving in the Korea War, Mr. Robinson was signed by the Steelers in 1953, but was released without ever playing an NFL game. He was then signed and released by the Montreal Alouettes in 1953 and 1954,
Following his playing career, Mr. Robinson became a minister. Reverend Robinson became active in the civil rights movement and promoted education in Pittsburgh's Manchester neighborhood, founding the Manchester Youth Development Center in 1968. It is still in operation.
Former Pitt linebacker SirVocea Dennis narrated a tribute video for the Panthers:
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