PHX Reporter

Darius Robinson, a first-round pick for the Cardinals, has demonstrated his potential during training camp. He performed well in 10 snaps during the preseason opener but was subsequently benched by coach Jonathan Gannon against the Colts and was unlikely to play in the preseason finale on Sunday. Despite this, his practice sessions remained impressive.

However, Robinson sustained a calf injury during Thursday's practice. Coach Jonathan Gannon stated that Robinson would undergo imaging on Friday to assess the extent of the damage.

The Cardinals have already lost outside linebacker BJ Ojulari for the season due to a knee injury sustained during a training camp practice.

Despite these setbacks, the Cardinals possess depth on their defensive line with free-agent signees Justin Jones, Bilal Nichols, and Khyiris Tonga, as well as returning players Roy Lopez, Dante Stills, and L.J. Collier. Robinson is anticipated to make a significant impact in his debut NFL season.

"The dude is a freak," Collier said of Robinson. "I feel like the kid's going to ball this year," he added. "Arguably might be Defensive Rookie of the Year if he stays on the track that I think he's going to be on."

Changes to Injured Reserve rules this season could benefit Robinson if recovery time is needed. Previously, any player wishing to return during the season but needing to go on IR had to be included in a team's initial 53-man roster before being moved to IR. Now, teams can place up to two players on IR at final cutdown and still bring them back during the regular season.