Bijan Robinson issues apology for viral NSFW joke during Thursday Night Football postgame show

Atlanta Falcons star running back Bijan Robinson issued a public apology late Thursday night after a comment he made during Prime Video’s Thursday Night Football postgame show. The comment went viral on social media.

Following Atlanta’s 29–28 comeback win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Robinson joined the TNF desk to discuss his performance. During the segment, analyst Richard Sherman praised Robinson for a highlight play in which he made multiple defenders miss. He compared it to backyard football. 

Robinson echoed the sentiment. However, he referenced a term long associated with the childhood game that is now widely recognized as a homophobic slur, “Smear the qu***.” The moment quickly circulated online, prompting immediate backlash. 

Prime Video’s broadcast crew attempted to steer the conversation away by referring to the game as “kill the carrier.” But the clip had already gained traction. Robinson responded shortly afterward with a statement posted to X, offering a direct and remorseful apology.

“Hey everyone I want to apologize for the insensitive comment I made in the broadcast. It was a football game we used to play as a kid but that’s not an excuse,” Robinson wrote. “I recognize the mistake and make sure to do better in the future. It was not reflective of my beliefs and I am so sorry to those I offended seriously!”

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Despite the off-field distraction, Robinson delivered one of his most complete performances of the season on the field. He rushed for 93 yards and a touchdown while adding 82 receiving yards, playing a key role in Atlanta’s late rally. 

Tight end Kyle Pitts also had a breakout night, hauling in 166 yards and three touchdowns as the Falcons erased a second-half deficit. The win moved Atlanta to 5–9 on the season, keeping them relevant in the NFC South while dealing a damaging blow to Tampa Bay’s playoff hopes. The Buccaneers fell to 7–7, and now trail the Carolina Panthers with three games remaining.

Alas, Robinson’s apology was swift and well-received by many. Still, the incident could draw the attention of the NFL league office. Any potential discipline would be determined by the league, though no action has been announced at the moment.

For Robinson, the focus now shifts back to football. He’s hoping to ensure that a momentary lapse doesn’t overshadow his growth as both a player and a public figure. The Falcons are back on the field next week, playing against the Arizona Cardinals on Dec. 21.