Chop Robinson, the Miami Dolphins’ latest draft pick at 21st overall in the 2024 NFL Draft, recently shared insights into his pre-draft experiences with the team, his career up to this point, and his expectations moving forward during a Zoom conference with the South Florida media.
Robinson revealed the nature of his selection announcement, delivered by Dolphins General Manager Chris Grier. “It was a brief conversation about football, about being chosen,” he explained. Grier discussed the defensive strategy Robinson would be part of and expressed his effort to understand Robinson not just as a player but as an individual.
Regarding the frequency of his interactions with the Dolphins, Robinson noted regular communication since their initial meeting at the combine, including conversations leading up to his Pro Day.
The new Dolphin also addressed comparisons to Micah Parsons, the NFL sensation and fellow Penn State alum, attributing similarities in their games to their speed and agility. Despite his athletic prowess which drew parallels to Parsons, Robinson’s college career saw him amassing only 11.5 sacks over three seasons. He attributed this to inconsistency in his technique, particularly in using his hands, a skill he has since focused on improving.
Joining a squad with notable talents such as Jaelan Phillips, Bradley Chubb, and Shaq Barrett, Robinson sees a prime opportunity for growth and learning alongside his new teammates, despite the competitive nature of the team’s enviable edge rush capabilities. Both Phillips and Chubb are in recovery from injuries sustained in 2023, potentially giving Robinson a chance to shine early on.
Robinson, whose impressive speed was showcased through a notable performance in the 40-yard dash at the NFL combine, also reflected on his journey to the NFL and the personal sacrifices made along the way, including the loss of two siblings which he cites as his driving force.
Looking ahead, Robinson expressed his respect for the Dolphins’ new defensive coordinator, Anthony Weaver, and is enthusiastic about the scheme similarities with his collegiate play, confident in his ability to adapt and excel.
Coming from Gaithersburg, Maryland, to the sunny locale of Miami, Robinson and his family are excited about the change, eagerly anticipating the warmer game days and the next chapter of his burgeoning football career.