NFL Draft 2022: 'Unpolished gem' Dominique Robinson ready for whatever awaits this weekend
Dominique Robinson may be raw as an edge rusher, but he appears to be in a win-win situation as he prepares for the NFL Draft weekend.
In a league where teams never can get enough pass rushers — and even though Robinson might not be a clear-cut day one starter such as Aidan Hutchinson or Kayvon Thibodeaux — he figures to provide much-needed depth and could find his way into a rotation when he is up to speed.
Robinson also should make an impact on special teams. Because of his rangy size, speed and strength, it's easy to imagine the McKinley High School grad seeing the field on special teams and making a difference there as a rookie. Robinson is listed at 6-foot-4, 256 pounds, with an 82-inch wingspan. He tested well at the NFL Combine after running 4.75, rep 22 in the bench press and jumping a 41-inch vertical. He also showcased his athleticism and versatility during the field drills.
When is the 2022 NFL Draft?
The NFL Draft begins Thursday night at 8 with Round 1. Rounds 2-3 begin at 8 p.m., Friday. The draft concludes Saturday, with Rounds 4-7 starting at noon.
Robinson, a former Miami RedHawks, is projected to be drafted somewhere in the range of the third to fifth round. NFL Draft analyst Lance Zierlein wrote a scouting report on Robinson comparing him to recently retired Akron native Whitney Mercilus, a 2012 first-round pick, and projects Robinson to eventually be an NFL starter.
“Robinson frequently flashes despite his relative inexperience at the position. He's quick off the snap, using plus fluidity, athleticism and bend to trim the edge and assail the pocket,” Zierlein said in his report. “However, he needs additional moves and counters before he's ready to beat pro tackles. He must get stronger and more technically sound in run support. Aligning as a stand-up rush linebacker might help expand his range as a playmaker in space. Robinson projects as an unpolished gem with a high ceiling and stable floor.”
More on Dominique Robinson: 'He looks like an NFL player': McKinley graduate Dominique Robinson readies for NFL combine
Dominique Robinson enjoys pre-draft Zoom calls and team visits
For Robinson, the draft process has been smooth. Robinson has spoken to multiple teams via Zoom and made in-person visits to the Miami Dolphins and the Cincinnati Bengals last week.
“Being able to go and talk to the coaches and show them how smart I am, and show them to show good I am as a person with my character an stuff like that, it’s been great,” Robinson said. “They love guys that have much on their background who come in and are about their business. It’s been fun.”
After his meetings, Robinson has an idea where certain teams might have him on their mock draft boards. However, Robinson is prepared for whatever happens. He knows teams try to hide their true draft intentions.
“So I personally don’t know what teams are actually looking for me or want me for real, for real, but we’ll see when the time comes," Robinson said.
College Football Recruiting: Ranking the top 20 Greater Akron/Canton players for 2023-25
Who might draft Dominique Robinson?
Seattle Seahawks, fourth round, pick 109
The Seahawks need all the help they can get, especially at the edge spot. They only made 34 sacks last season. They haven’t been active throughout free agency and are likely to address the position needs through the draft. Robinson could be part of a rebuilding defense, which gives him a chance to compete for playing time as a pass-rush specialist.
Cleveland Browns, fourth round, pick 118
The Browns could use more depth to beef up their defensive front. Robinson could benefit from playing behind All-Pro defensive end Myles Garrett and Chase Winovich, acquired in a trade this offseason, as he continues to develop as an NFL edge rusher.
2022 NFL mock draft: The Browns can fill roster holes at wide receiver, defensive line
Miami Dolphins, fourth round, pick 125
Robinson to Miami could be an intriguing option where he could be used as a 3-4 outside linebacker. The Dolphins saw the emergence of their rookie edge player, Jaelan Phillips, and safety Jevon Holland. Adding Robinson to Miami’s young but explosive defense could be an ideal fit.
Chicago Bears, fifth round, pick 148th
While the Bears are likely to prioritize rebuilding their offense around Justin Fields, they still need to address the end spot after trading Khalil Mack to the Los Angeles Chargers. So the Bears could be looking for another edge player to play on the opposite end of Robert Quinn.
Dallas Cowboys, fifth round, pick 155th
After the departure of Randy Gregory, the Cowboys could be looking for some fresh new talents on the defensive end spot. For Robinson playing behind Pro Bowl defensive end like DeMarcus Lawrence could benefit him while finding his way into the rotation.
This article originally appeared on The Repository: Dominique Robinson, McKinley grad, brings versatility in NFL Draft
