NFL Network's Michael Robinson's First In-Studio Interview

In 2001 I was doing a Thursday Night High School Sports / Recruiting Show on (what was then) Sports Radio 910 in Richmond. The object of a huge recruiting battle that season was Varina's Michael Robinson who had committed to Penn State over the then recruiting juggernaut in the Commonwealth of Virginia; Virginia Tech.

We invited Michael to visit the show and explain his decision. He came into the studio with his older brother who I detected was acting a little like his "handler" which kind of rubbed me the wrong way. I wasn't in the mood for a kid with an entourage. That first impression would soon evaporate. Michael and his brother were great to deal with and just regular guys.  

Michael was gracious and thoughtful with his answers and poised beyond his years. To the surprise of me & my Partner Bill McDonald our guest agreed to take calls. We had a huge in-state following (we're talking about 2001) and the Hokie following came in hot. I watched Michael answer all the questions and he even weathered the questions about his future as a quarterback and leaving the State. By the end of the hour, the calls started to change to congratulations and good wishes. Mike had won them over.

Michael exceeded my expectations with his College and Professional careers. That's not what I will remember about Michael Robinson. I have since told him personally that I never once "worried about that kid" that came into the studio that evening. First impressions are everything and of course you never know who's watching. 

Seeing him on the NFL Network strikes a familiar chord with me. Mike returns to that same studio to regularly talk sports with Wes McElroy of Fox Sports 910. Congrats Mike for your life on and off the field.