As the college football season barrels toward, FantasyPros will be taking a look at early NFL Draft scouting reports before the Combine in March. Here’s a look at Chop Robinson.

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2024 NFL Draft Scouting Report: Chop Robinson

Chop Robinson (DE – Penn State)

6’3” – 250 lbs.

Background:

His given name is Demeioun. Robinson originally attended Maryland, started one game and totaled 19-2.5-2.0, He then transferred to Penn State the following year and totaled 26-10.0-5.5 over 455 snaps. He never started a game but rotated in a lot over the course of the year. Has been starting this year, but missed some time after getting injured in the Ohio State game.

Positives:

Has two years of impressive play for a major program with a good reputation, taking snaps on both ends of the defensive line. Plays the game with a tough, physical on-field temperament. Pad level is nice and low. Locks out opposing blockers and holds the point of attack better than you’d think, with a strong lower body. Does a good job of locating the ball quickly. Navigates congestion very well; shows the ability to get low and weave through traffic to get to the ball. Very rangy in pursuit, with a high motor. Relentless pass-rusher with an impressive first step and some violent explosiveness; given his size, it’s surprising that his ability to convert speed to power is his best trait. Good contact balance allows him to stay on track through his rush. Leverage and excellent leg drive allows him to grind down much bigger blockers. Feasts on offensive tackles who overset, with a low and explosive inside move. Nice ankle/hip flexibility allows him to bend a nice arc back to the passer. Clean footwork on limited zone drops.

Negatives:

Has added bulk in school but is still slightly smaller than ideal for a pro edge. Actual sack production has been limited. Lapses into throwing his body around a little bit too much, rather than using his length/hands. Aggressive rush approach can undermine run fits at times. Occasionally looks out of control when trying to work spin moves. Hand use is still a work in progress; would like to see him diversify his approach a bit. Also doesn’t have a particularly wide repertoire of counters and can stay stuck on blocks when his first move doesn’t work.

Summary:

Despite having just one year of starting experience and relatively modest sack totals over the past two seasons, appears destined to come off the board in the first round because of his impressive combination of aggression, physicality, relentlessness, explosion, and power. Would probably fit best on a team that lets him pin his ears back and get after the passer, as his game can lack discipline at times. Looks like he’ll be a real handful for opposing blockers to handle.

Projection: Round 1