n today’s NFL, every team is looking for versatile, athletic edge defenders who can handle many different responsibilities and make big plays no matter where they line up. If your favorite team is looking for that player in the 2021 NFL Draft class, FSU’s
Janarius Robinson should be on their radar.
A promising, explosive defender with a sky-high ceiling, Robinson recently spoke exclusively with The Draft Network about his time at FSU, which NFL star he likes to learn from on film, and what fans can expect from him this season.
JM: You played in 34 career games at FSU. You have a ton of experience under your belt. How do you look back on your time as a Seminole?
JR: I look back on it and say that I went through a lot of trials and tribulations. Ultimately, my time at FSU made me the man I am today.
JM: You went to the Senior Bowl back in January. That was a big week for you. What do you think you proved to NFL scouts in Mobile?
JR: I think I proved that I can compete with the best of the best. I think every NFL scout noticed that about me. It was a wonderful opportunity. It gave me a chance to showcase myself against some of the best players in this year’s draft. I just went out there and tried to put my best foot forward every single day. I was happy with the end result. I played a good game on Saturday.
JM: You absolutely did. I want to talk about your pass rush arsenal. What are some of your go-to moves?
JR: I like the long-arm. I also enjoy converting speed to power. I have a lot of athletic ability. I have great size and strength for the position. I have to take advantage of the gifts I was given. I have all of the intangibles. I really enjoy that speed-to-power move. I have a chop, dip, and rip that I consider a go-to. My size gives me a lot of advantages.
JM: Your length jumps off the screen. You have an 87-inch wingspan and 35-inch arms. Those are some elite numbers. How do you use that length to your advantage?
JR: I have very long arms. It allows me to use the long-arm as one of my most consistent pass rush moves. I can create separation against an offensive lineman with that. I have to take advantage of my abilities.
JM: Is there a scheme that fits you best at the next level? Do you see yourself playing as a base end in a 4-3?
JR: Over my last few years at Florida State, I’ve played multiple positions. I played with my hand in the dirt. I’ve played as a 5-technique. I stood up and played some outside linebacker as well. I’m a versatile player. That’s how I see myself at the next level.
I can play defensive end in a 4-3 or I could play outside linebacker and even drop into coverage on occasion. I just have that ability to do multiple things for a defense. NFL teams are always looking for versatility.
JM: There’s no doubt about it. You’ve put a lot of good things on tape. You’re also a good run defender. We’ve talked about your length and ability to rush the passer, but you also set the edge and do some good things in the run game. You’re a quick processor. How did you develop that area of your game?
JR: I try to play smart and stout at the point of attack. I have to set a hard edge. It comes with the job. That’s life in the trenches. I have to keep myself clean in the run game. I try to be a force defender for my defense.
JM: If an NFL team or scout asks why your sack production was a bit modest at FSU, how do you plan on addressing that?
JR: I just went out there and did what my coaches asked me to do. I played within our defense. That was the requirement. I did my job to the best of my ability. Sometimes, the results don’t turn out how you want them to. I just have to stay positive in every situation. I’m always gonna make the best of every situation I find myself in.
JM: If you could pick the brain of any pass rusher in the NFL, who would you choose and why?
JR: I would probably choose Jason Pierre-Paul. That’s somebody that I look up to. We have similar body types. I really enjoy watching him. I would love to pick his brain and learn some tips from him. I’m sure he could share a lot of valuable information with me, especially as a rookie. He must have a ton of insight to offer. He’s a great veteran. He’s been playing the position at a high level for so long.
JM: That’s a great choice. I’ve really appreciated your time today. In closing, what kind of impact is Janarius Robinson going to make at the next level?
JR: I’m gonna come in and compete for a starting job. I’m gonna make my mark on this league in my rookie season.
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