Livingstone College transfer Jordan Robinson always believed he had Division I talent

Jordan Robinson takes pride in being a physical player. (Photo by Twitter)

It’s not easy to keep a recruiting secret but Kentucky sure did with defensive back Jordan Robinson, a freshman at Division II Livingstone College in Salisbury, N.C., who is transferring to UK.

The 6-4, 190-pound Robinson got to play only four games his high school senior season in South Carolina due to COVID interruptions but felt he was ready to take a big step up in competition after his one season at Livingstone College. Others obviously agreed because he had Division I schools interested when he decided to transfer.

“UK started showing interest in me not long after I entered the transfer portal,” Robinson said. “They got hold of my film and started doing their homework on me from that point.”

Robinson committed to Appalachian State originally before changing his mind and picking Kentucky. He also received offers from Oregon State, Samford, Eastern Kentucky, Tarleton State, Campbell and Valdosta State.

“The decision for me to choose UK just felt right after having a chance to speak with and then meet the coaching staff and seeing how much they knew about me already,” Robinson said.

“Also the opportunity to play in the SEC against the best every week played a huge part.”

Robinson always believed he had Division 1 talent but due his lack of playing opportunities his senior year — especially after moving from receiver to cornerback — cost him that chance out of high school.

“I always felt like I could play at the highest level of college football,” he said. “I am someone who always wants to impose their will on the opponent. I take pride in being physical while I’m on the field. I’m a long guy with good speed to cover but also have size and mindset to help in run support.”

Robinson never felt playing Division II football would be the end of his dream of playing in the NFL. Five-time NFL Pro Bowl tight end/Super Bowl champion Ben Coates also played at Livingstone College.

“I didn’t really know if playing Power Five was going to be a possibility for me when I first arrived on campus,” Robinson said. “I started to learn about some of the guys who are in the NFL currently from D2 schools and some who were All-Pro which gave me hope.”

“My focus started to be to just control what I can control and let God take care of the rest. That was my mindset throughout the whole process.”