Sports
Thibodaux Native Amik Robertson Silences Critics with Stellar NFL Performance
DETROIT, Mich. – Thibodaux native Amik Robertson, long doubted for his size and background, delivered a career-defining performance in the Detroit Lions‘ Week 18 victory over the Minnesota Vikings, solidifying his place as a key player in the team’s Super Bowl push.
Robertson, a 5-foot-9 defensive back, limited star receiver Justin Jefferson to just three catches in the Lions’ 30-20 win, earning a first-round bye in the NFC playoffs. The victory marked a pivotal moment for Robertson, who has faced skepticism throughout his football journey.
“There’s no telling how good we can be,” Robertson said in a post-game interview with NBC. “We think the sky is the absolute limit here for our guys.”
Robertson’s path to the NFL has been anything but conventional. Despite a standout high school career at Thibodaux High School, where he played both offense and defense, and a decorated tenure at Louisiana Tech, critics often pointed to his lack of elite size. Selected in the fourth round of the 2020 NFL Draft by the Las Vegas Raiders, Robertson spent four seasons as a reliable secondary option before signing a two-year deal with the Lions in 2023.
“You could see it right away. It just looked different for Amik,” said Chris Dugas, Robertson’s former high school coach and current offensive coordinator at Central Lafourche. “You could see the talent, the athleticism, but more important, you could see the relentless drive and work ethic.”
This season, Robertson has been a linchpin for the Lions’ injury-riddled defense. Initially a slot cornerback, he transitioned to outside defensive back due to multiple injuries in the secondary. His performance against Jefferson, widely regarded as one of the NFL’s top receivers, underscored his growth and resilience.
“This kid has been something special,” NBC analyst Chris Collinsworth remarked during the broadcast.
Robertson’s success has resonated deeply in his hometown of Thibodaux, where fans flooded social media with messages of pride and support. “Man, I’m so proud of him,” said Lions safety Kerby Joseph. “He’s waited for this moment, and he’s making the best of it.”
As the Lions prepare for their playoff run, Robertson remains focused on the ultimate goal: bringing a Super Bowl title to Detroit and, in turn, to Thibodaux. “I love this team,” Robertson said. “We’re ready for whatever comes next.”