Jets Acquire Cornerback Rashard Robinson in Deal With 49ers

Desperate for depth at the cornerback position, the Jets swung a deal for 49ers cornerback Rashard Robinson in exchange for a fifth round draft choice.

Sounds like 49ers got a 5th for Rashard Robinson.

— Peter Schrager (@PSchrags) October 31, 2017

Robinson’s addition will draw more groans than praise from Jets fans as Mike Maccagnan shipped the draft choice off for a player who was recently benched by the 0-8 San Francisco 49ers for his poor play and a penchant for drawing penalties having been flagged 10 times in 8 games (4 for pass interference).

However, at 6′ 3” with 4.49 speed, there is undoubtedly plenty of physical talent to work with as the former LSU product joins Morris Claiborne and Jamal Adams as former Tigers in the Jets secondary.

Here’s more on Robinson from his NFL.com scouting combine recap:

STRENGTHS

Tremendously long athlete with absolutely blazing straight line speed. Scouts believe he could have one of the top 40-yard dash times at the combine. Recovery speed allows him to sit on short and intermediate routes. Can flip hips and accelerate with his man down the field. Smooth change of speed to mirror double movers. Thin, but not soft. Plays to his height and it often spells doom when he has receivers pinned against the sideline. In 2013, held then-Aggie Mike Evans to four catches for 51 yards. Willing to do his part when he has to tackle. Explosive from standstill and can close quickly on throws or receivers.

WEAKNESSES

Due to off-field issues, has limited game experience and ball production. Feet become impatient from press and he opens early at the first sign of a head fake. Spindly legs may be close to maxed out in terms of size. Run support may be an issue when he has to disengage against NFL size. Arrested in June of 2015 and charged with unauthorized entry in connection with a theft from the apartment of one of Robinson’s former teammates. Has admitted to being “selfish” while at LSU.

SOURCES TELL US

“I’m not sure he’s a bad kid, but I know he hates school. He’s really tough — typical south Florida kid. You know what you get. The interviews will work themselves out for better or worse, but you keep things simple for him and let him chase one guy around the field all day. He’s really good at that.” — Former SEC defensive coach

NFL COMPARISON

Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie

BOTTOM LINE

He might look like he skipped “leg day” for several years, but his height, speed and man-cover talent is undeniable. Robinson has the traits and talent to be considered one of the best press corners in this draft, but teams will have to weigh the character against the talent. Look for an electric combine which could create new buzz around the former LSU Tiger. Robinson has the raw ability to become a good NFL starter who can play on an island if asked, but I am downgrading his draft grade due to his character concerns.

So while the struggles have been apparent, the Jets are hoping that Todd Bowles and company can turn Robinson into a quality contributor as a long, physical cornerback in Kacy Rodgers’ defense.

Glenn Naughton

Glenn was Born in the Bronx, New York and has followed the Jets religiously despite being stationed in several different countries and time zones around the world. He now resides in England and has been a JetNation member since 2005. Glenn will bleed green with the rest of us through the highs and lows.

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