Dynamic rookie returner must give the injury-marred Jaguars a much-needed spark

The Jacksonville Jaguars are dealing with several injuries at less-than-ideal times. At 2-6, they could be without several key contributors when they face the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 9. The silver lining is that the Jags are also getting reinforcements. One of them could provide a spark on special teams.

The team announced that it's activating Robinson's 21-day window to return from Injured Reserve. A fifth-round pick in this year's draft, the former Texas Longhorn suffered a toe injury in training camp that forced him to miss the preseason and eventually land on IR before the regular season.

Before getting hurt, Robinson earned praise from special teams coach Heath Farwell for his ability to play different roles. On top of that, his speed caught the eye of the coaching staff. Unfortunately, he needed to wait to show what he could do. The good news is that he couldn't have come at a better time.

Robinson was the backup behind Bijan Robinson at Texas. However, he didn't get many snaps on offense and instead contributed as a returner on special teams. Given that he's 5'8" and 191 pounds, he's not the kind of running back that will get 15-20 carries a game. However, the Washington D.C. native could get a few touches and contribute on special teams.

With Parker Washington having to fill in for Christian Kirk for the remainder of the season, Robinson could see time as a returner. Washington became the primary returner when Devin Duvernay landed on IR after Week 5.

On the other hand, Robinson could spell Tank Bigsby and D'Ernest Johnson from time to time if Travis Etienne, who's dealing with a hamstring injury, doesn't play against the Eagles. Either way, the rookie running back is joining the Jags at the best possible time.

The Jaguars need Keilan Robinson to give the special teams a boost

Keilan Robinson was a full participant in practice Wednesday. He appears to be at full strength, so barring something unexpected, he could make his NFL debut in Week 9. If that's the case, he could contribute in the return game. This would allow Parker Washington to fully focus on the offense.

Washington will be especially important in Week 9 if either Brian Thomas Jr. or Gabe Davis is unavailable. Both of them, like Christian Kirk, suffered injuries in the loss to the Green Bay Packers, and are day to day. With Robinson in the fold, the coaching staff could take some pressure off his shoulders.

Granted, Robinson is a fifth-round selection and he won't suddenly salvage a season that is hanging by a thread. That said, the Jacksonville Jaguars need all the help that they can get, and he could provide it on special teams or offense.

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