Cincinnati Bengals Draft Spotlight: A’Shawn Robinson
In the latest mock draft done by NFL.com, mock draft 4.0 done by Daniel Jeremiah has the Bengals landing A’Shawn Robison of Alabama with the 24th pick. A’Shawn Robinson could very well end up in the lap of the Cincinnati Bengals, so we might as well get to learn about the man who could be lining up next to Geno Atkins.
A’Shawn Robinson
A’Shawn Robinson, a defensive tackle from Alabama, would make an instant impact on the Bengals defensive line. Weighing in at 307 lbs at 6’4″, Robinson has the ideal body for an interior lineman. With Domata Peko and by bringing
back, the defensive line isn’t getting younger with both guys older than 30. Bringing in a young talented man like Robinson can keep the Bengals strong in the middle for years to come.
As a true freshman, Robinson only started two games, but played in all 13. As a freshman, Robinson had 38 stops, eight for a loss and a team best 5.5 sacks. In two years as a full-time starter for Alabama, Robinson recorded 95 tackles, 14 tackles for loss and 3.5 sacks. In 2014 and 2015, Robinson earned First Team All-SEC honors. He has played everywhere on the defensive line in the 3-4 scheme, which gives him the ability to fit into a lot of schemes.
Strengths: A well proportioned ideal defensive lineman body. Has sneaky athleticism and moves very well for a big guy. A very good tackler, rarely misses tackles on running backs. Has the ability to push the pocket when rushing and good backfield vision to make a play. Strong enough to compete right away in the NFL and be an instant impact.
Weaknesses: Needs to work on getting better leverage by dropping pad level. Average first step, allowing the offense to get off the line before him. Needs better pass rush technique, besides his bull rush he struggles to make moves to get in backfield. Needs to play with quicker reaction and think less.
Comparison: Michael Brockers
Bottom Line: If Robinson is still available for the Bengals with the 24th pick, they will have some tough decisions to make. As wide receiver is a huge need for them right now, the defense could get younger and much improved by drafting Robinson. Robinson will be a solid person in the locker room and will bring that to the field. Robinson and Atkins could make a lethal duo with both of them having the ability to make plays in the backfield.