In a recent draft simulation, Draft Tek had the New York Giants selecting Central Florida cornerback Josh Robinson in the second round, 63rd overall. Robinson is not a player I was familiar with, so that immediately made him a candidate for a 2012 NFL Draft Prospect Profile. Here it is.
In making the second-round selection of Robinson, Draft Tek said "At this point in the draft, he's the best option on the board, and in today's NFL, CB is always a position of need. Robinson might be a workout warrior - not many knew about him until he ran a 4.33 in Indy - but similar things were said about JPP 2 years ago. Vinny Curry and Brandon Thompson are potential picks here, but Robinson's speed is incredibly rare and worth a risk."
Wes Bunting of the National Football Post says:
"Robinson is a talented corner. He's fluid, can really run and has the vertical speed to make up for a false step at the college level. He's also a guy who will tackle and isn't afraid to mix it up inside. ... Nevertheless, there are simply too many technical flaws to his game as of now that need to be cleaned up for me to feel comfortable using a first-round grade on him. However, because of his straight-line speed, natural fluidity and willingness to tackle, I would give the guy a "dirty starter" type grade who I wouldn't have too many reservations taking in round two."
CBS Sports also has a second-round grade on Robinson. CBS says:
POSITIVES: Possesses legitimate NFL cover skills. Has a quick, low backpedal with a fluid hip turn to cover receivers down the field. Has at least adequate straight-line speed and good balance, fluidity to change directions. Alert defender for zone coverage, showing good understanding of route progressions occuring behind him and a quick burst downhill to break on underneath passes in front of him. Very good hand-eye coordination and timing to knock passes away as the receiver attempts to secure the catch. Highly competitive. Raised his level of play against top competition. Emerged as a standout punt returner in 2010, earning honorable mention accolades by averaging 15.2 yards per return (ninth in the country) as a sophomore, though he did not return a punt for score over his career. Played in all 38 games of his UCF career and has had no known injuries.
NEGATIVES: Possesses only average height for the position. A bit high in his backpedal. Too often allows a free release to the receiver when in man-press coverage. Gets his hands on a lot of football but needs to do a better job of turning interception opportunities into actual interceptions, recording 10 despite breaking up 36 passes over his career. Struggled with fumbles as a punt returner, raising concerns about his ability to contribute in this role at the NFL level.
Josh Robinson Profile
Height: 5-foot-10
Weight: 199
School: Central Florida
40 time: 4.33
2011 Stats: 48 tackles, 15 passes defended. 2 interceptions