Amik Robertson Reflects on Challenges and Revelries in Las Vegas
Detroit Lions cornerback Amik Robertson has opened up about his tumultuous tenure with the Las Vegas Raiders, revealing a personal battle that extended beyond the football field. In a candid appearance on the “St. Brown Bros.” podcast, Robertson discussed the difficulties he faced while transitioning to the role of nickel cornerback, a shift that he admits took a toll on both his performance and personal life.
Struggles in Transition
Robertson’s move to the nickel position marked a significant turning point in his career. “I come in, I get drafted. Everybody loves me. Then they move me to nickel. Never played that in my life. That s**t was like Chinese,” he said, reflecting on the abrupt change. The Raiders’ coaching staff expected him to adapt quickly, but he felt unprepared for the demands of the new role.
The added pressure, compounded by the challenges of a pandemic-affected training schedule that eliminated traditional off-season activities, left him feeling isolated. “We didn’t have OTAs. We didn’t have none of that,” he explained. With limited opportunities to practice and learn, Robertson found himself trying to master the complexities of the position from an iPad, a stark contrast to the hands-on experience he desperately needed.
Escapism Through Nightlife
Amidst the struggles, Robertson turned to Las Vegas’s vibrant nightlife as a form of escape. “I don’t really gamble… Before, I was partying, I’m going to be honest. I was doing that my first two years. I was doing that a lot,” he admitted. His coping mechanism, while common among young athletes in a city known for its distractions, ultimately became a double-edged sword.
When pressed to elaborate on his experiences, Robertson described a downward spiral. “I was in a bad place, bro, and that’s what forced me to go out a lot.” The cornerback’s candidness highlights the mental toll that professional sports can exert, especially on young players navigating the pressures of performance and public expectation.
Moving Forward
Now with the Detroit Lions, Robertson is determined to leave those tumultuous days behind him. His willingness to confront and share his past experiences serves as a reminder of the challenges many athletes face off the field. As he embarks on a new chapter, Robertson’s journey underscores the importance of resilience and the continuous pursuit of growth—both personally and professionally.
