He doesn’t talk much, but Cam Robinson hears everything.
During the NFL Scouting Combine, analyst Mike Mayok and others had the Louisiana native pegged as one of top “interior lineman” for this year’s draft. While he was a three-year starter for Alabama at offensive tackle, the NFL Network staff believes that Robinson’s talents will be better suited at offensive guard.
“I don’t put much stock into what those guys say,” Robinson said.
“The people that say that are TV people. They don’t play football. They’ve probably never played football and definitely not on the offensive line, so how would you know how to critique and judge.”
Robinson entered pro day set to build off a quality effort from the combine. He stayed away from basic drills on Wednesday, but when it came to positional things, the 322-pounder turned heads.
Alabama’s 2016 Outland Trophy winner caught the attention of Seattle Seahawks coach Pete Carroll, following a hand placement technique drill. In Seattle’s run to the Super Bowl in 2013, it carried a 1,000-yard rusher (Marshawn Lynch) and effective road graders at both tackle spots. Since then, the Seahawks have struggled to find consistency on the ground, and it’s placed much pressure on Russell Wilson at quarterback.
Robinson cleared the way for eight 500-plus yard rushers, a 2,000-yard rusher (Derrick Henry) and two 1,000-yard backs throughout his career. Seattle is in need of a left and right tackle, as it sits with the 26th overall pick in the first round. Reflecting back on his vocal skills, Robinson is not afraid to state his opinion on the best offensive tackle prospect in the class. The media got a sample at the conclusion of pro day.
“From the work that I’ve put on film to the talent I’ve played against in my three years here, teams will know what I’ve done,” he said. “That’s what I feel. That’s what it is.”
Regardless of whether he’s viewed as a guard or tackle, Robinson projects as a first round pick and the three-time Southeastern Conference champion (2014-16) will be hearing his name called in April.
Stephen M. Smith is a managing editor and columnist for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @Smsmith_TDALMag.
