Receiver Demarcus Robinson will not face a suspension from the Los Angeles Rams this week following his arrest on suspicion of driving under the influence.
Coach Sean McVay confirmed on Wednesday that Robinson will be available to play when the Rams (5-6) take on the New Orleans Saints this Sunday.
“I think he understands the seriousness of the situation and how fortunate we are that no one was hurt,” McVay said. “I believe he feels remorseful. We’re going to let the legal process unfold, and the league has its own procedures as well.”
Robinson was arrested early Monday morning after California Highway Patrol officers observed a white Dodge sedan exceeding 100 mph on the 101 freeway in the western San Fernando Valley, near the Rams’ training facility in Woodland Hills.
The CHP reported that the driver, who identified himself as Robinson, exhibited “objective signs and symptoms of alcohol impairment.”
After practice on Wednesday, Robinson shared that he spoke with McVay and the Rams front office on Monday afternoon after being released.
“It was difficult to have that conversation, but it was necessary,” Robinson said. “It reflects poorly. I don’t want to bring negative attention or energy to the team. This isn’t my usual behavior. I sincerely apologized to him, the team, and the entire organization for putting them in this situation.”
According to McVay and quarterback Matthew Stafford, Robinson addressed the team and expressed remorse for his arrest.
“I think he made a poor choice,” McVay said. “That doesn’t define him as a bad person. I believe that this experience, along with his words, will serve as a lesson for our players, helping ensure that something like this doesn’t happen again. We can view it as a learning moment, especially since no one was harmed.”
Robinson mentioned he is uncertain about when his case will advance in the court system.
In his second season with the Rams, Robinson has recorded 26 receptions for 384 yards and a team-high six touchdown catches, starting all 11 games. He caught a touchdown pass during the Rams’ 37-20 loss to Philadelphia, just hours before his arrest.
The nine-year NFL veteran has been a consistent third option for Stafford, trailing star receivers Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua. Robinson spent his first six seasons with the Kansas City Chiefs, winning a Super Bowl in February 2020, before playing one year with Baltimore and joining the Rams last season.
“Let this be a lesson for all of us,” Stafford remarked. “We’re fortunate with how things turned out, honestly, that no one was harmed. I know D-Rob is a great person. I enjoy being around him and love him as a teammate. I’m here to support him and help in any way I can.”
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