Darius Robinson, the Arizona Cardinals’ highly anticipated first-round pick, is finally set to make his NFL debut.
The 23-year-old defensive lineman, drafted 27th overall out of Missouri, will take the field Sunday in a critical NFC matchup against the Minnesota Vikings. His first snaps mark the debut of the last of the 31 first-round selections from the 2024 NFL Draft—a milestone moment for this year’s rookie class.
Robinson’s journey to this point has been marked by patience and determination. A calf injury suffered during training camp sidelined him before the season began, landing him on injured reserve. Despite being activated on October 28, the Cardinals opted for a cautious approach, ensuring their promising young defender was fully prepared for his debut.
As the Cardinals gear up for their Week 13 clash, Robinson’s return couldn’t come at a better time. With Arizona fighting to stay competitive in the tightly contested NFC West, his presence on the defensive line adds a much-needed boost. Known for his explosiveness and ability to disrupt plays in the backfield, Robinson has the potential to make an immediate impact.
The Cardinals’ 2024 draft class has already generated excitement, with wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr., taken fourth overall, showcasing his star potential. Now, Robinson has the opportunity to solidify his role as another cornerstone of Arizona’s future. His debut also comes with a unique historical note, as it completes the on-field arrival of this year’s first-round draft class.
The timing of Robinson’s debut is especially poignant, as it coincides with a Minnesota Vikings team grappling with their own roster adjustments. With Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy sidelined for the season due to a knee injury, the stage is set for Robinson to potentially make his mark against a team led by a backup signal-caller.
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Arizona enters the matchup at 6-5, needing every edge to keep their playoff hopes alive. Robinson’s addition to the lineup could be a key factor, especially against a Vikings squad boasting a 9-2 record and sitting atop the NFC North. The clash is expected to be a test of resilience for both teams, with playoff positioning on the line.
Robinson’s delayed start to his NFL career has only heightened the anticipation surrounding his debut. During his collegiate career at Missouri, he earned a reputation as a disruptive force, recording 8.5 sacks and 15 tackles for loss in his final season. The Cardinals are hopeful that his skill set will translate seamlessly to the professional level.
For Arizona’s defense, which has shown flashes of dominance this season, Robinson’s return adds depth and versatility. His ability to generate pressure could be a game-changer, especially against a Vikings offense that has relied heavily on its ground game and quick passing attack.
Head coach Jonathan Gannon emphasized the importance of easing Robinson into action, but he also acknowledged the rookie’s readiness. “Darius has worked hard to get to this point,” Gannon said during a press conference. “We’re excited to see what he can bring to our defense.”
As kickoff approaches, all eyes will be on Robinson as he takes his first steps onto an NFL field. For Cardinals fans, his debut represents the culmination of months of anticipation and the hope that he can help elevate the team to new heights.
Sunday’s game against the Vikings not only marks Robinson’s professional debut but also highlights the broader impact of Arizona’s 2024 draft strategy. With key contributors like Harrison Jr. already making waves, the addition of Robinson signals a bright future for the Cardinals as they continue their push for postseason success.
The Cardinals and Vikings are set to kick off at 1 p.m. ET, with Robinson ready to leave his mark on the game—and the season.
