Former Owls linebacker Adrian Robinson Jr. dies at 25

Temple University was in mourning Sunday after former Owls defensive lineman-linebacker Adrian Robinson Jr. died Saturday night at age 25. The cause of his death was not released.

"The entire Temple University community is mourning the tragic passing of one of our former all-time great football players, Adrian Robinson," athletic director Kevin Clark said. "Our thoughts and prayers are with his family at this incredibly tough time."

Symmetry, the agency for Mr. Robinson, posted a message on Facebook that read, in part: "Adrian was a beloved father, son, brother, friend and teammate. We ask that you please respect his family's privacy during this difficult time, and especially keep his daughter Avery Marie in your prayers."

In 50 career games at Temple, Mr. Robinson had 156 tackles and 24 sacks. In 2009 as a sophomore, he was named the Mid-American Conference player of the year after recording 14 tackles for losses and 13 sacks.

The former Harrisburg High School standout was an undrafted free agent and played two years in the NFL. He appeared in 12 games in 2012 with the Pittsburgh Steelers. After that season, he was traded to the Eagles for running back Felix Jones. Mr. Robinson was cut by the Eagles but went on to play for Denver, San Diego, and Washington.

On April 27, 2015, he signed a contract with the Canadian Football League's Hamilton Tiger-Cats.

His brother, Averee Robinson, will be a junior defensive lineman at Temple this fall. Last season, Averee Robinson appeared in 12 games, making eight tackles and recovering three fumbles and returning one for a touchdown.

There was an outpouring of support from the Temple football community. Jalen Fitzpatrick, who was Temple's leading wide receiver as a senior last season, posted on Twitter: "RIP to my former high school and college teammate Adrian Robinson. May blessing go out to his brother Averee and the rest of his family!"

"The Temple football program lost a friend, a brother, and a wonderful young man today," coach Matt Rhule said. ". . . I was so proud to see him back at Temple this spring finishing his degree and being a loving father to his new daughter. He will always be a part of me and will always be a part of this program."

Information on funeral arrangements was not available.

@sjnard