Technique and intimidation were two things A’Shawn Robinson had going for him during his three seasons at Alabama (2013-15). The second-round pick is starting to show those same attributes with the Detroit Lions, as it enters another week of organized team activities.
Tyrunn Walker, who enters his fifth season at defensive tackle, has not participated much in team drills (broken leg, dislocated ankle) according to Lions’ senior writer Tim Twentyman.
Walker sustained both injuries last season, giving Robinson a chance at more reps.
Working beside Haloti Ngata is something Robinson isn’t taking for granted. The five-time NFL Pro Bowl attendee (2009-13) and 2012 Super Bowl champion (Baltimore Ravens) is having fun with him.
“A’Shawn’s awesome,” Ngata said Tuesday per Josh Katzenstein of the Detroit News.
“He’s freaking big and strong. He’s going to be a great student of the game. He pays attention and just always corrects what he needs to correct.”
Lions’ defensive coordinator Teryl Austin was complimentary of Robinson in Thursday’s practice.
He said “Robinson is still learning our technique, but he picks up things fast.”
The 6-foot-4, 307-pound defensive tackle helped anchor a Crimson Tide defense that allowed 75.7 rushing yards/game last season. He finished 2015 with 46 tackles, 7.5 tackles for loss, 3.5 sacks, 10 quarterback hurries and a blocked kick, earning the status of being an Outland Trophy finalist.
Stephen M. Smith is a senior analyst and columnist for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @Smsmith_TDALMag.
