The heartwarming story of Brian Robinson Jr.’s recovery just keeps getting better.
The Commanders activate the rookie running back for Sunday’s game against the Titans, sources say. Despite only a week of training after returning from the non-football injury list, Robinson will play.
Although he may be the starter, Robinson is likely to back Antonio Gibson on Sunday. About 20 snapshots are planned for Robinson.
It’s all amazing considering that on August 28th, Robinson was shot dead twice during an attempted robbery in Washington, DC. The third year was lucky, the bullets went clean through his lower body. The wounds healed last week but he was able to continue training during his rehab.
Coach Ron Rivera told reporters this week that Robinson will leave when he is ready. No reservations. He was a little sore on Wednesday but came back on Thursday and responded well. Friday was another positive day.
“We’re pretty fired up,” Rivera said.
The team prepared 23-year-old Robinson by running several simulation series with the coaching staff to get them fit. Everything worked. And while he probably won’t start, Robinson, a destroyer between tackles, will start as a compliment to Gibson.
“And throw JD McKissic in that mix and you’ve got a good set of backs spinning and you’re trying to find matchups to take advantage of,” Rivera said.
In this week’s practice, Robinson impressed despite having only worked part-time for the past four weeks. While offensive coordinator Scott Turner said the decision would be made by the doctors, he hinted the rookie’s debut could come on Sunday.
“He looked great in practice,” Turner told reporters. “He’s not going to come in and just carry the ball 30 times. It is also his first time playing in the NFL. He’s a rookie so there will be a time when he gets it working. But I think we’re all excited.”
Everyone is excited about his personal story and incredible recovery, but Robinson, the player, should bolster the commander’s offense.
Said Turner: “He’s going to give us some juice and that physical presence and just a good all-around back.”