Report: Commanders to start Robinson on TNF vs. Bears
Rookie running back Brian Robinson Jr. will start for the Washington Commanders on Thursday against the Chicago Bears, sources told NFL Network's Ian Rapoport and Mike Garafolo.
Robinson made his NFL debut against the Tennessee Titans last weekend just six weeks after being shot twice as a victim of an attempted robbery. He rushed for 22 yards on nine carries, serving as backup for Antonio Gibson in the 21-17 loss.
The Commanders' third-round pick avoided serious injury during the attempted robbery with both bullets missing arteries, bones, and ligaments. He underwent surgery and was placed on the reserve/non-football injury list.
Robinson was designated to return to practice and activated for his first game last week.
The first-year tailback explained after last week's contest that he was humbled to be back on the field with his teammates.
"I feel good, man," he said, according to Kevin Patra of NFL.com. "It's just being back out on the field. I mean, the ups and downs, but today, everything finally came into the light. I'm just so blessed to be back out there with all the fans, the team, everybody involved."
Head coach Ron Rivera appeared to hint at Robinson's ascension up the depth chart after the game as well.
"Now that part of it is over," Rivera said. "We know he is ready to roll."