Seahawks

The Seahawks have made just one roster move so far in paring the roster from 75 to 53, but it was a rather surprising one as the team released veteran fullback Michael Robinson. The news is included in the NFL.com lists of cuts.

Robinson also Tweeted a goodbye message to Seattle fans.

Been real #12thMan will always have love for ya

— Michael Robinson (@RealMikeRob) August 31, 2013

Robinson, who the Seahawks picked up as a free agent in 2010, was due to make $2.5 million this year, making him the third highest-paid fullback in the NFL, a salary that at the age of 30 left him expendable with the team having younger, promising players who can fill that spot in Derrick Coleman and sixth-round pick Spencer Ware. Cutting him will save the team $1 million in cap space.

Robinson is a respected team leader and also the producer of the popular RealRobRobert videos.

Robinson had not played in Seattle’s final two preseason games after suffering a virus that coach Pete Carroll had said on Wednesday could keep him out for a few more weeks.

Robinson was named to the Pro Bowl in 2011 and named to Sports Illustrated’s All-Pro team last season when he had 14 carries for 49 yards and 13 receptions for 126 as well as providing lead blocking for tailback Marshawn Lynch.

And as KJR-AM’s Curtis Crabtree has noted, the team could simply try to bring Robinson back at a lower salary a few weeks into the season.

UPDATE: And here’s some reaction among teammates:

From linebacker Bobby Wagner:

I did not see that coming

— Bobby Wagner (@Bwagz54) August 31, 2013

And cornerback Richard Sherman:

The Business side of the NFL… Sucks for both fans and players….

— Richard Sherman (@RSherman_25) August 31, 2013

UPDATE: And from Russell Wilson:

I'm going to miss you @RealMikeRob You're the best in the business. Love you VA.

— Russell Wilson (@DangeRussWilson) August 31, 2013