Amik Robertson, the 5-foot-9 cornerback for the Detroit Lions, delivered an unforgettable performance in Detroit’s 31-9 victory over the Minnesota Vikings, clinching the NFC North and securing the NFC’s No. 1 seed. Robertson, who had previously been told he was too small to succeed, stepped up when called upon to cover one of the NFL’s best wide receivers, Justin Jefferson.
With the injury to starting outside cornerback Carlton Davis III, Robertson had been moving between the slot and outside corner. His assignment to face Jefferson was a pivotal moment for the Lions’ defense. Robertson rose to the challenge, holding Jefferson to just two catches for 48 yards on six targets and even breaking up a pass. In addition to his stellar coverage, Robertson contributed five tackles and displayed his usual physicality in defending the run and quick screens.
After the game, Robertson was awarded the Player of the Game ball by head coach Dan Campbell. Reflecting on the moment, Robertson expressed his gratitude for the opportunity, noting that he had been eager for such a challenge. “I knew we had a chance to win,” Robertson said, “I knew they were going to put me in a good situation to be myself within the scheme.”
Campbell praised Robertson’s competitiveness and fearlessness, explaining that the Lions had signed him for his versatility and relentless approach to challenges. “He’s not going to shy away from it, he’s not going to fear from it,” Campbell said. Robertson’s performance, which contributed to the Lions’ strong defensive showing, highlighted his ability to excel both inside and outside, qualities that the Lions highly value.
The offseason signing of Robertson, who had previously played for the Las Vegas Raiders, has proven to be a key move for the Lions, as his toughness and adaptability have bolstered their defensive unit. Robertson, having overcome criticism about his size, credited his success to his work ethic and the trust of his coaches, saying, “They believe in you, and it makes you want to run through a wall for them.”