Quick Facts
Biography
Jamal Robertson (born January 10, 1977) is a former Canadian football running back and kick returner who played in the Canadian Football League and National Football League. He was originally signed by the Calgary Stampeders as an undrafted free agent in 2001. He played college football at Ohio Northern. Jamal was one of the greatest athletes in Ohio Northern University (ONU) history. During his career at ONU, he amassed numerous school records and won the Division III National Player of the Year award. Jamal is an alumnus of Walter E. Stebbins High School in Dayton, Ohio, where he was an all state running back and a state champion in track & field.
Early years
Robertson played for Stebbins High School from 1991 to 1995 in Riverside, Ohio. He rushed for 2029 yards his senior year, and was runner-up for the Mr. Football award in Ohio.
Professional career
Calgary Stampeders
Robertson was signed by the Calgary Stampeders in 2001.
Rhein Fire
Robertson played for the Rhein Fire of NFL Europa in 2002. He set an NFL Europe record for the longest run from scrimmage (a 90-yard touchdown against the Frankfurt Galaxy), played against the Berlin Thunder in World Bowl X, and was eventually named NFL Europe's offensive MVP.
San Francisco 49ers
After his stellar performance in NFL Europe, Robertson was signed as a free agent by the San Francisco 49ers in 2002.
Carolina Panthers
Robertson was signed by the Carolina Panthers in 2004 after being waived by the 49ers. He was used primarily as a kick returner, but injuries to Stephen Davis, DeShaun Foster, and Nick Goings gave him the opportunity to play from the running back position. He gained 71 yards on 16 attempts in 2004, and 41 yards on 14 attempts in 2005. At one point, he played as the #1 tailback during the 2005 NFC Championship Game against the Seattle Seahawks. However, Robertson was released in the final round of cuts before the 2006 NFL season.
Atlanta Falcons
On December 13, 2006 Robertson was signed by the Atlanta Falcons due to injuries to Warrick Dunn and Jerious Norwood. Jamal was released on August 8, 2007 prior to playing a single pre-season game.
Saskatchewan Roughriders
Due to injuries to running backs Corey Holmes, Wes Cates, and Josh Ranek the Saskatchewan Roughriders brought in Jamal for insurance on November 14, 2007.
Toronto Argonauts
On June 5, 2008, he was traded to the Toronto Argonauts in exchange for Leron Mitchell. The trade came after Argonaut starter Tyler Ebell ruptured his Achilles tendon, necessitating a move for Toronto. He rushed for 1031 yards in 2009.
BC Lions
On March 22, 2010, it was announced that Robertson had signed with the BC Lions. He re-signed with the BC Lions on January 24, 2010.
Jamal Robertson announced his retirement on December 1, 2011 after winning the 99th Grey Cup in 2011.