RD 4 (110th): Alton Robinson – EDGE, Syracuse
At this part of the draft, the New York Giants need to be looking to find diamonds in the rough that exhibit strong traits that they could develop into starters down the line. Players in this section of the draft typically have concerns such as injuries or character issues.
While Zuniga was an extremely athletic player with injury concerns, Alton Robinson of Syracuse represents a player with incredible ability and potential character issues. Robinson was once a highly recruited player who received an offer from Texas A&M. However, after an altercation with an ex-girlfriend ended with him having second-degree robbery charges brought against him, Texas A&M rescinded his scholarship offer.
Ultimately, the charges were dropped and Robinson and following a year at Northeastern Oklahoma A&M where he would record 14 sacks, would accept a scholarship to play football at Syracuse University. At Syracuse, Robinson would be a three-year starter who would amass 115 total tackles, 19.5 sacks, and five forced fumbles. More importantly, he was able to avoid any off-the-field issues.
With the addition of two high ceiling pass rushers added in the third and fourth rounds of the draft and no sixth-round draft pick available due to the trade with the Chargers, I turned my attention towards adding a safety in the fifth round.