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The Detroit Lions’ defensive line got a little bit stronger on Tuesday morning. Defensive tackle A’Shawn Robinson returned to training camp, and appeared to be a full participant during the team’s fifth practice.
Robinson reported to camp initially, according to the team, however he had not been present at any of the team’s first four practices. Head coach Matt Patricia noted on Friday that Robinson was excused for “a personal matter.”
Robinson’s return comes at a good time for the Lions, as many of their interior defenders suffered injuries recently. Da’Shawn Hand is “day-to-day” according to Patricia, but was sport a pretty hefty brace on his left arm. Damon Harrison Sr. remains on the Non-Football Injury list. John Atkins also suffered an injury during Sunday’s practice, but was back out there on Tuesday.
Robinson is coming off a career year for the Lions, tallying 49 tackles, 1.0 sacks and a near-elite PFF grade:
A'Shawn Robinson was oh so close to an elite overall grade this past season – still, he had an awesome year in 2018 pic.twitter.com/S3WeXUxokS
— PFF (@PFF) March 19, 2019
Robinson declined to speak to the media after practice, so the reason for his absence is still unknown.