by J.T. Toth
Photo courtesy of On3.com.
The NFL Draft talk never ends, and we are here at Draft 412 in an effort to keep you ready for the next set of gridiron stars. From today until draft night 2024, we will bring you mocks, profiles, team needs, and everything else related to the 2024 NFL Draft.
Today’s Spotlight - Penn State, Edge Rusher, Chop Robinson
Name- Demeioun “Chop” Robinson
Pos- Edge
Team- Penn State
HT/WT- 6’3” 250 lbs.
Born- N/A
Home – Gaithersburg, MD
Demeioun Robison goes by the nickname “Chop,” which was given to him as a baby. Robinson played high school football at Quince Orchard High School in the Maryland area where he broke the school’s all-time sack record. He was named a 2019 Under Armour All-American and was a consensus 4-star rating from ESPN, Rivals, and 247 Sports. Overall, he was named the 35th best prospect that year by ESPN.
Robinson decided to stay home and play football for the Maryland Terrapins. He played one season at Maryland, starting one game and playing in 13 total. He finished the season with 19 tackles and 2 sacks but after the season, Robinson decided to enter the transfer portal and eventually would pick Penn State.
Robinson stepped right in for the Nittany Lions and became one of their better pass rushers. In 12 games, Robinson posted 26 tackles (19 solo), 10 tackles for loss, 5.5 sacks, and a forced fumble. Robinson was named All-Big Ten honorable mention by the coaches and media.
Robinson has good length for a pass rusher and has the frame to still add 10-20 lbs. He has great body control, and is flexible enough to beat his blocker several different ways. He’s got an explosive first step and can use his hands to get around the edge, beating blockers.
He has strong instincts for sniffing out the plays and locating the ball well and has no problem dropping into zone coverage to help if asked. His best move is a spin and at the collegiate level, regularly beats bigger blockers with it.
The downside to Robinson’s game is desire. He often lacks a consistent motor, which he must improve before the draft next year. Also, he tends to play upright, which will cause him to play off-balance and lose leverage against more powerful blockers. Robinson loves beating you around the edge but at times, too much so, running himself out of the play.
Strengths
Good length
Athletic and flexible
Drops back into zones well
Violent, strong hands
Weaknesses
Plays too stiff at times
Needs to get stronger
Inconsistent motor
Final Analysis
Chop Robinson has first round talent and could become a top 15-20 pick with a big season. Robinson’s ceiling is high and he will be a name to watch in 2023-2024.
Prediction- First Round Pick in 2024.