The Washington Commanders appointed rookie running back Brian Robinson Jr. starter hours before kickoff against the Chicago Bears on Thursday Night Football.
Robinson officially made his NFL debut on Sunday against the Tennessee Titans and returned to play this Thursday. He missed the first four games of the season with Washington following an attempted carjacking accident, where he was shot twice in the leg.
Robinson was hospitalized on August 28 before returning to the field at the start of last week. He was back in the NFL in just five weeks after being shot. He was then designated to return to practice two days later on October 8. On Sunday, he officially stepped on the field for the first time with the team.
Robinson’s injury
Robinson was sidelined because of two bullet wounds that he got during the robbery attempt. One hit his glute while the other struck his knee. Despite the severe injuries, Robinson was able to escape with small damage.
Doctors were able to remove both of the bullets. The bullet that hit Robinson’s knee was extracted cleanly, without compromising any ligaments and bones. Had the bullet damaged his ligaments, Robinson would end his season before it began.
“That was probably the lowest point I’ve ever been in my life,” Robinson told reporters of his injuries. “My passion for this game runs so deep. I never thought I’d be in a situation where I had to question or be questioned about if I could return to playing football.”
Robinson brings hope to Commanders
Robinson entered the season with a lot of hype. He appeared to be in line to dethrone Antonio Gibson at running back. Unfortunately, the attempted robbery accident postponed his campaign. This Thursday, he proved why he deserves to be the starting running back.
Washington saw the potential of Robinson and materialize it on Thursday night. Robinson scored his first touchdown in his second NFL game and his first career start. The touchdown led to the Commanders winning 12-7 over the Bears. He led the Commanders to victory with 60 yards on 17 carries.
“My biggest goal was to find my way back on the football field,” Robinson said after the game. “I was looking for opportunity that came my way. … Every day, I came in and prepared to get myself healthy so I can (make the most) of an opportunity like this.”
Robinson had a significant impact on the Commanders in Thursday’s game, but he instead thanked his teammates for their support over the previous two months.
“I’m just I’m just so thankful and appreciative for all the guys in that locker room,” Robinson said. “They showed me nothing but love and care throughout that whole time. I can’t do nothing but thank them for just helping me kind of get back on my feet and push me.”
“Every day I came into the building, (they were) just telling me God’s got a purpose for me and just keep going. My time’s going to come.“
Robinson was selected 98th overall in the third round of the 2022 NFL Draft in April by the Commanders following a breakout final season at the Crimson Tide.
He recorded 1,343 yards and 14 touchdowns on the ground, averaging 5 yards per carry. He also caught 35 passes for 296 yards and two touchdowns, leading the Alabama Crimson Tide to the College Football Playoff title for the sixth time.