5. Allton Robinson – Syracuse
If the NY Giants are searching for a high upside developmental project at edge rusher, Alton Robinson could be a target later on in the draft. Robinson is an explosive player who is raw and needs continued development but has an extremely high upside if he can fine-tune his skills.
At 6’3″ and 260-pounds, Robinson is the prototypical speed rusher. He has excellent size, length, power, explosiveness, and athleticism at the edge rusher position. In addition, he possesses strong hands that allow him to shed blocks and grip ball carriers.
With a strong football IQ, great tackling radius and fantastic burst off the snap, Robinson represents an excellent defender against the run as well as a great speed rushing option. His great closing speed makes him tough to defend when pursuing the quarterback.
However, as with any player being projected this late in the draft, there are definitive red flags. The biggest concern is his character. Robinson was a highly recruited player in high school who had committed to play at Texas A&M. However, after he was charged with second-degree robbery in high school, Texas A&M rescinded their offer, causing Robinson to attend junior college before transferring to Syracuse.
Beyond questions about his character, Robinson has the tendency to take plays off, play too upright, and get lazy with his technique, causing him to be inconsistent with his play. Additionally, he lacks an inside pass rush, something he will need to develop to be effective in the NFL.
Robinson is a high upside pick who projects to play as either a 4-3 defensive end or an outside linebacker in a 3-4 defensive scheme. He certainly possesses the natural talent to be considered as a lottery ticket type pick late in the draft for the NY Giants.