Despite the enticing scent of smothered pork chops, the Miami Dolphins’ 2024 first-round draft pick echoes memories of their previous disappointing choice, Charles Harris. Like Harris, who was selected 22nd in the 2017 NFL draft and saw his career in Miami falter after three lackluster seasons, Demeioun “Pork Chop” Robinson boasts impressive physical abilities that didn’t quite translate to on-field success at Penn State. Regarded as a “ready-for-the-pros” pass rusher, Robinson is praised for his explosive initial movement and precise timing off the snap.
However, his sack numbers leave much to be desired. Dolphins General Manager Chris Grier emphasizes the importance of disrupting the passer, citing Robinson’s high disruption statistics. Consequently, Robinson is seen as a risky prospect with potential for growth, but he needs refinement in setting the edge against the run and diversifying his pass-rushing techniques.
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This narrative mirrors Harris’s trajectory, who failed to shed his developmental label before being traded to the Atlanta Falcons. Robinson is optimistic about his ability to evolve under the tutelage of Anthony Weaver, Miami’s new defensive coordinator and former NFL pass rusher, believing that Weaver can unlock additional skills in his arsenal. After Miami parted ways with Harris due to unmet expectations, the pressure is on for Robinson to prove himself.
It’s possible to ask Robinson to begin
It’s hoped that Robinson won’t have to face such pressure, given the Dolphins’ urgent need for him to step up immediately with Jaelan Phillips and Brandley Chubb sidelined due to serious injuries. This puts the onus on Robinson and Shaq Barrett, a new addition, to man the edges until their return, possibly establishing themselves in a rotational setup.
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Effective coaching is pivotal in refining young talents like Robinson, who, at 21, is aware of his areas for improvement, notably his inconsistent handwork hindering his ability to convert pressures into sacks. Despite his impressive college stats, he acknowledges his need to better utilize his hands. With 60 tackles, 11.5 sacks, and eight quarterback hits over three collegiate seasons, Robinson recognizes the importance of refining this aspect. He’s been diligently focusing on enhancing his hand techniques throughout the offseason, expressing confidence that repeated practice will make it second nature when it counts.
DOLPHINS PASSED ON GOOD DEFENDERS
In the NFL draft, where the Dolphins aimed to bolster their roster with talent in the trenches, they made a notable decision to bypass several promising prospects. Among them were Jer’Zhan Newton, a standout defensive tackle from Illinois who remains available in the second round, along with every cornerback, safety, and offensive lineman in the draft class, including Tyler Guyton from Oklahoma and Graham Barton from Duke. Instead, Miami opted for a pass rusher whose track record raises some questions. An NFL executive remarked on this choice, noting the Dolphins’ preference for a third edge rusher over an interior offensive lineman. However, there are uncertainties about whether this pass rusher can consistently finish plays or merely generate pressure.
The Dolphins’ decision was influenced by the strategy of teams like the Jets and Bills, who prioritize depth by fielding multiple edge rushers. This approach led them to select players like Robinson, who impressed with his exceptional physical attributes. Robinson’s remarkable performance in drills such as the 40-yard dash, broad jump, and vertical jump caught the attention of the Dolphins’ decision-makers. He was widely regarded as one of the top 25 prospects in the 2024 draft, drawing comparisons to elite talents like Micah Parsons and Myles Garrett in terms of physical prowess.
The Dolphins are banking on Robinson’s potential to replicate the success of these esteemed pass rushers. If he can come close to matching their production levels, it would be considered a significant win for Miami. However, there’s also the concern among Dolphins fans that Robinson may not live up to expectations, echoing the disappointment experienced with previous draft picks like Harris.
