NFL trade machine: A’Shawn Robinson to a 3-4 team
By Erik Lambert
It appears the Detroit Lions are beginning their transitions on defense under new head coach Matt Patricia, and the NFL trade machine is whirring.
Rumors have begun to spread that defensive tackle A’Shawn Robinson, the teams’ former 2nd round pick from two years ago could be on the block. They’ve grown frustrated with him during that time, likely because he’s only managed 2.5 sacks as a pro. It’s a fair criticism. Defensive linemen are judged by that trait above all else these days. Can you get to the quarterback? Those that can’t fall under an umbrella of scrutiny.
Then again it’s possible the Lions never should’ve drafted Robinson. Draft experts stated back in 2016 that the Alabama standout was a better fit as a two-gap defensive end in a 3-4 scheme. Meaning his primary task was to set the edge and stop the run, eating up blocks and allowing the edge rushers to get better chances to rush the passer. To his credit, he fulfilled that role well last season. Still, Patricia may not have a place for him in the new system.
So which teams might be willing to give him a shot?
Kansas City Chiefs
The Chiefs defense has a number of problems. Pass rush is probably the biggest but they also had a hard time stopping the run in 2017 as well. Their defensive line situation isn’t exactly ideal as Chris Jones is their only notable standout. Robinson could come in and provide extra beef in the trenches, making life easier for the inside linebackers who may end up being a strength of the team if things pan out as hoped.
A'Shawn Robinson's starting job could be in jeopardy after slow start for Lions https://t.co/71QPKUEwyz
— Kalamazoo Gazette (@Kzoo_Gazette) August 22, 2018
New York Giants
The Giants are in the process of shifting towards the 3-4 system. So they require players who fit it. Getting Robinson on the cheap might be just the sort of thing GM Dave Gettleman would jump at. He loves players with size and power, believing the NFL is a game for big men. This certainly runs right up that alley. Robinson could shore up what was a leaky run defense from last year, especially against those strong NFC East rushing attacks.
Chicago Bears
Would the Lions trade within the division? If it was a player they no longer wanted then why not? The Bears are already stacked on the defensive line but they love to stockpile. Adding Robinson to the mix could make their run defense one of the best in the NFL alongside Eddie Goldman and Akiem Hicks. Not to mention Danny Trevathan and Roquan Smith at inside linebacker. Vic Fangio has done good work with guys like him in the past.