Robiskie shows his stuff

CLEVELAND - The forgotten rookie finally got a chance to show what he has to offer, and he took advantage.

Receiver Brian Robiskie, the first of three second-round draft choices by the Browns, had four receptions for 69 yards, including a 43-yard play in a 30-23 loss to the San Diego Chargers. Entering the game, the Ohio State product had just one reception for the season.

Robiskie has been inactive four times, including the previous two games. Coach Eric Mangini makes activation decisions based on how players perform during practices.

Robiskie didn't think he did anything differently last week to earn a spot on the active roster.

"I've been trying to do the same things each week, and that's just to keep getting better," Robiskie said. "Obviously the coaches made the decision. I've just been trying to do the same thing, and that's to keep working hard in practice and hope to have an opportunity on Sunday."

Robiskie had a meeting with Mangini early last week to discuss his lack of playing time.

"I asked him what he needed me to do," Robiskie said. "What I need to do during the week. He told me to keep working and see what happens on Sunday. He's been pretty open to guys stopping by (his office) all season. His door has always been open. I wanted to stop in and talk to him for a little bit."

If Robiskie is upset about his situation, he's not about to make waves as a rookie.

"The biggest thing is that we're not winning as a team," he said. "That's what really is discouraging because we know we practice hard each and every week. We feel like when we come out on Sunday, we're disappointed in what the team is doing. As a receiver, you want to be out there making plays. Any time you're not doing that, you're definitely going to get discouraged, but you're thinking about what you can do to help the team."

Robiskie almost registered his first NFL touchdown on a pass from Brady Quinn in the fourth quarter. Robiskie jumped high to try to pull down the pass in the end zone, but linebacker Shaun Phillips knocked the ball from his grasp.

"As a receiver, that's your quarterback saying he trusts you to throw the ball up like that," Robiskie said. "As a receiver you have to find a way to make that play."

Robiskie should have many more chances to make plays after his performance against the Chargers.

mmclain@tribtoday.com