Jacksonville Jaguars' running back Denard Robinson finally got the opportunity to showcase his skills Sunday against the Cleveland Browns when he ran for 127 yards and one touchdown on 22 carries. Prior to that game, Robinson had never received more than 9 carries in a single game. That includes just 20 rushing attempts during his entire rookie season.
With injured free agent bust, Toby Gerhart, as the team's leading rusher (123 yards on 48 carries), the Jags knew it was time for a change. Enter Robinson, who became the first Jaguar to rush for 100 yards since Jordan Todman did it in December of last year.
Will the Jags continue to feed the former Michigan quarterback?
"Yeah, I think so," coach Gus Bradley said when asked if Robinson could remain Jacksonville's top back. "We'll look at the film. He did a good job and we hope to get Toby back."
Robinson's performance this weekend, coupled with the lack of rushing production from Gerhart and Strom Johnson, could lead to an increased workload the rest of the season. Robinson, after gaining an extra 15 pounds of muscle in the off-season, seems ready to lead Jacksonville's running attack. He was an explosive runner in college, and has had plenty of time to develop his skills.
I think Robinson is worth rostering in most formats. Sunday's game provided a brief peek at his potential upside and it's not as if Jacksonville's backfield is overflowing with quality rushers. The Jaguars have a tough matchup against the Miami Dolphins' 10th ranked rushing defense this week. It will bode well for Robinson's fantasy prospects if he can get it going against this decent defensive front.
P.S. Robinson is listed by the NFL as a receiver due to his jersey number (#16), but is used as a running back by Jacksonville.
