Cardinals rookie DL Darius Robinson makes NFL debut in loss to Vikings

Arizona Cardinals rookie defensive lineman Darius Robinson made his NFL debut against the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday.

He finished the game with a handful of snaps and did not register a tackle.

“It’s been a long road for him, but he’s excited for the opportunity,” head coach Jonathan Gannon told NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero pregame. “We told him to just take a deep breath and play football. He’s excited and we’re going to get him going today.”

Robinson had yet to record a snap this regular season after going down with a calf injury ahead of initial 53-man roster cuts. He was placed on injured reserve soon after.

While rehabbing the calf issue, the rookie also went through the passing of his mother.

“It’s been a long time … but at the end of the day, I’m just on my journey right now and whatever we see best for the team, I’m going to do,” he said on Nov. 20. “I’m just focused on being the best Darius today.”

The versatile Robinson joined the Cardinals this past April as the No. 27 overall pick out of Missouri.

“I know he’s going to make an impact.”

Arizona Cardinals DC Nick Rallis is excited – not curious – about rookie Darius Robinson’s return to play. pic.twitter.com/IqZmAkzWM5

— Tyler Drake (@Tdrake4sports) November 26, 2024

JT back

Joining the youngster as active this week was veteran safety Jalen Thompson.

Thompson missed the past two games with an ankle injury but turned in a week of limited practices ahead of Sunday’s tilt.

Additionally, safety Joey Blount (hip) and running back Emari Demercado (back) were active.

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