Amik Robertson expressed that his heart was set on Detroit as he navigated his free agency decision.

After a tough season with the Las Vegas Raiders, Robertson was at home in January, watching the NFC Championship Game between the Detroit Lions and the San Francisco 49ers.

His support for the Lions stemmed from his friendship with Kindle Vildor.

As events unfolded, both teams would significantly impact the free agency choice Robertson made just weeks later.

Speaking with Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press, Robertson revealed that the Lions contacted him on the first day of free agency in March.

While initial negotiations didn’t result in a deal, he explored other options, including a potentially more lucrative offer from the 49ers.

However, he told his agent he wasn’t ready to commit to San Francisco, as his preference was Detroit.

Ultimately, Robertson signed a two-year, $9.5 million contract with the Lions on the second day of free agency.

Since joining Detroit, Robertson has seamlessly adapted to their secondary.

Initially playing as a slot corner despite excelling as an outside corner with the Raiders, he transitioned back to primarily playing outside in Week 16 against the Chicago Bears.

This adjustment came after Carlton Davis was sidelined with a broken jaw.

That week, Robertson played a season-high 63 snaps, recording eight tackles and two pass breakups.

Upon signing with the Lions, Robertson emphasized his admiration for head coach Dan Campbell’s style, which resonated with his personality.

He revisited this sentiment with Birkett, noting how much he wanted to join Detroit.

“That’s where my heart was,” Robertson said. “I wanted to be here. The style of play, the attitude Dan (Campbell) brings—this don’t-give-a-(expletive) mindset—it fits me perfectly.

On the first day they reached out, we couldn’t make it happen, but when they called again the next day, I knew: ‘This is where I’m going.’ Other teams reached out, but I waited for the Lions.”

Robertson also acknowledged that he would’ve likely signed with San Francisco had Detroit not been an option.

Reflecting on his decision, he felt vindicated as Detroit’s success this season proved his choice to be the right one. When the Lions reconnected with him after the first day of free agency, the deal was quickly finalized.

Ahead of Monday night’s rematch, Robertson’s desire to join Detroit has paid off, both for him and the team.