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This series will be your guide to the 2024 draft class. From scouting reports to mock drafts and exploring different scenarios, we will be covering the NFL draft and the future of the Minnesota Vikings from all angles.
The focus of the draft class in this space will be on the Vikings’ major needs at quarterback, running back, defensive line and edge rusher. We will also focus on wide receiver since it’s a loaded class and an increased chance to get a Stefon Diggs-type steal in the later rounds.
The Vikings are slated to have 9 picks going into the NFL draft and they need to make the most out of them.
Background
Darius Robinson
- Missouri
- Height-6050
- Weight-286 lbs
- Fifth-year senior
- 3-Star recruit per 247 Sports
- Stats: 112 tackles, 69 solo, 21.0 tackles for loss, 13.0 sacks, 1 pass defended, 1 forced fumble, fumble recovery
- Games watched: LSU 2023, Georgia 2023, Kansas State 2023, Florida 2023
Strengths
First thing that pops on his film is the length. He has 34 6/8″ arms and uses them well to stack offensive lineman. That size and length gives him some real versatility in positional alignment. He thrives anywhere from 3T all the way to a wide nine.
Packs a powerful punch and places his hands well. Has the power to drive blockers back and wreak havoc in the running game. Can stack and shed with ease, allowing him to man multiple gaps.
Plays patient in space. Doesn’t get fooled by RPOs, screens or play-action but rather calmly lets the play come to him.
Weaknesses
Robinson has the size and length to be impactful but doesn’t always use it to his advantage.
He doesn’t have a fully developed pass-rush plan. Has 1-2 moves he can use with consistency, but tries to bullrush offensive linemen nearly every play. Varying up that plan will be key to success at the next level.
In the same vein, counters are an issue for Robinson. Once he engages and his initial idea doesn’t work, Robinson struggles to throw another move with any sort of speed and awareness. He tries too often to out athlete you and he’s not a good enough athlete for that to translate.
Overview
| Quickness/Penetration | 17.1/20 |
| Power | 8.2/10 |
| Pass Rush Moves | 7.9/10 |
| Counters | 7.6/10 |
| Leverage | 8.1/10 |
| Tackling | 8.3/10 |
| Size/Length | 9.2/10 |
| Run Defense | 8.6/10 |
| Awareness | 8.5/10 |
| Grade | 83.5/100 Second Round |
Robinson is a really talented player that can do a little bit of everything on the defensive line. His size, length and versatility on the defensive line will be incredibly valuable to a team in the National Football League. All that being said, he compares physically and usage wise to J.J. Watt and that is incredibly appealing.
For those that are curious, here are Darius Robinson's pass rush win rates from different alignments.
3/4i – 13.0%
5/6 – 18.8%
Wider than that – 19.1%So to me, he's a 6'5" 290lb 5-tech that can play Edge in nickel looks just for fun.
That's the J.J. Watt profile. https://t.co/jzjOipve1c
— Brett Kollmann (@BrettKollmann) January 31, 2024
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