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2016 NFL Draft Profile: A’Shawn Robinson DE, Alabama

By Chris Schisler

Jan 11, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide defensive lineman A'Shawn Robinson (86) walks off the field after beating the Clemson Tigers in the 2016 CFP National Championship at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 11, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide defensive lineman A'Shawn Robinson (86) walks off the field after beating the Clemson Tigers in the 2016 CFP National Championship at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports /
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The Baltimore Ravens have never been shy about drafting defensive talent from Alabama. C.J. Mosley, Courtney Upshaw, Terrence Cody and Jarrett Johnson all were Alabama guys. Could A’Shawn Robinson be the next Crimson Tide defender to be drafted by the Ravens?

Robinson would not be in play in the first round for the Ravens. I have him as a 2nd to 3rd round talent. Much like Arik Armstead last NFL Draft season, Robinson has the frame and physical ability but is a raw and developing player. Robinson is not a finished project.

Strengths: 

  • Hard hitting, textbook tackles
  • Tall and long 6’4″ 312 lbs. frame
  • Hulk like strength
  • Gives good pursuit of football
  • Space-eater
  • Explosive
  • Gets hands up, tips passes

Concerns:

  • Relies too heavily on bull rush
  • Can take himself out of play
  • Results on field don’t match athletic ability
  • Needs to play with lower pad level

In three seasons at Alabama, Robinson had 22 tackles for a loss and 9 sacks. He has one forced fumble and one fumble recovery. He was a productive player who rotated in and out of one of the most talented defenses in the SEC and the country. Robinson has a high ceiling and because he has the size and strength he has a decent floor of potential as well.

Would He Fit With The Ravens? 

Robinson would fit right in on the Ravens 3-4 defense. As a defensive end in a 3-4 front, Robinson could play to his strengths. He could fill gaps and take up blockers. Robinson will just keep getting better and better. The physical tool set is there.

This is not an area of need for the Ravens. With young talent like Brandon Williams, Brent Urban, Carl Davis and Timmy Jernigan, the Ravens don’t need to address the defensive line in the NFL Draft. I expect Robinson is on the Ravens’ radar and at the right position in the draft he would bring good value.

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