Arizona Cardinals rookie defensive end Darius Robinson is making strides in his recovery from a calf injury that has sidelined him since August. As he prepares for a potential debut against the Seattle Seahawks, Robinson emphasizes the importance of taking things one day at a time.
Key Takeaways
- Darius Robinson has been out since August due to a calf injury.
- He returned to practice on October 9 but faced setbacks.
- Robinson is activated to the 53-man roster and is eager to play.
- Coach Jonathan Gannon supports a cautious approach to Robinson's return.
Robinson's Journey Back to the Field
Robinson, the Cardinals' first-round pick from Missouri, expressed that the past few months have been filled with challenges. After suffering a calf injury on August 22, he has been working diligently to return to the field.
"I'm just taking it one day at a time," Robinson stated, highlighting his focus on improvement and preparation. He is looking forward to reviewing practice tape with his coaches to identify areas for growth.
Activation and Practice Updates
After initially returning to practice on October 9, Robinson was unable to complete the session. He was later activated to the 53-man roster on October 29, a move that was crucial to avoid being placed on injured reserve for the remainder of the season.
Despite the setbacks, Robinson expressed feelings of heartbreak when he realized he wouldn't be able to return earlier. He acknowledged the timeline of his injury and the importance of patience in his recovery process.
Coach's Perspective
Head coach Jonathan Gannon has been supportive of Robinson's journey, stating that the team will take a cautious approach with his practice reps. Gannon noted, "It's been a long time. He's had a tough road. He had a tough injury and he's working his tail off to get back out there."
Looking Ahead
Robinson has not played a competitive game since the Cotton Bowl on December 29, 2023. However, he remains confident in his preparation during rehabilitation.
"People don't realize when you're hurt, you work out, you lift and run twice as much as everybody else," he explained. Robinson is focused on stacking practice reps and ensuring he is ready for game competition.
Support from the Team
Robinson has expressed gratitude for the support he has received from teammates, coaches, and the Cardinals organization. He feels a strong sense of responsibility to repay the faith the team has shown in him since the draft.
"These guys, they drafted me, so I owe them everything. I'm just so thankful for them because they're the same people from the draft room in Indy," Robinson said, emphasizing his commitment to giving his best every day.
As Robinson continues to work towards his NFL debut, fans and teammates alike are eager to see the impact he will make on the field. With a positive mindset and a focus on daily progress, Robinson is poised to make a significant return to the game.
