NFL prospects reveal the first thing they’re going to buy once drafted
USA TODAY Sports’ Mackenzie Salmon asks Drake Maye, Joe Alt, and Bo Nix what they’re going to buy once they get drafted.
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The Miami Dolphins selected Penn State football defensive end Chop Robinson with the No. 21 pick in the 2024 NFL draft.
Robinson, one of the nation’s most feared edge rushers in 2023 is arguably the most athletic and explosive athletes in this year’s draft. His rather pedestrian production in two years at Penn State (combined 17.5 tackles for loss, 9.5 sacks) won’t shy away suitors who see an immense potential simply in need or refining, particularly as a pass-rusher. Here’s what to know about Robinson:
Robinson is best known for stunning first-step speed and explosiveness rushing the passer from the edge. Often compared to NFL stars such as Myles Garrett and former Lion, Micah Parsons. He’s received a prospect score of 6.7 from NFL.com, which the outlet categorizes as a “Year 1 starter.” A raw super force, though, he must quickly expand and refine his package of rush moves and counters and develop as run-stopper.
Robinson is listed at 6-foot-3 and weighs in at 254 lbs. He’s a Gaithersburg, Maryland native and attended Quince Orchard (Md.) High School.
Half of Robinson’s total tackles (15) in 2023 were behind scrimmage for losses (7.5). Playing in just 10 games, he added four sacks, two forced fumbles, a fumble recovery, a pass breakup and five quarterback hurries.
His best all-around performance came last November after missing most of three games to injury. He overwhelmed Rutgers with a career-best five tackles (all solo) and two tackles for loss, including a strip-sack in the third quarter in which he recovered the fumble.
Robinson dominated, starting with his 4.48 40-yard dash — tied for the eighth-fastest among defensive ends. He also starred in the shuttle (4.25 seconds) and the vertical jump (34 feet, 5 inches) and broad jump (10 feet, 8 inches).