(Photo Courtesy of articles.orlandosentinel.com)
Minnesota desperately needed to fill its hole in the cornerback position, and Spielman and Co. were able to do just that in the 2012 NFL Draft… all while waiting until Round 3.
This year’s draft proved a deep one as far as thie conerback position was concerned and the Vikings are thrilled to have taken UCF corner Josh Robinson at No. 66 overall.
“I spoke with [the Vikings] at the Combine, and they seemed like they liked me then. I am just thankful they did draft me, to give me that opportunity to prove to the world that I can get it done […]” commented Robinson following the draft.
Robinson entered the Draft following his junior year at Central Florida. During his 2011 season, Robinson started all 12 games at CB, recording 48 tackles, breaking up 15 passes and nabbing two interceptions. In addition, the 5’10” CB returned seven punts and four kickoffs. His season-high game occurred on Nov. 3, in which Robinson tallied eight tackles against Tulsa, and he also earned a spot on Phil Steele’s All-C-USA First Team.
Don’t let the later-round pick surprise you. Robinson proved the fastest player at this year’s Combine, logging a 4.29 time in the 40-yard dash.
“Josh is a very athletic player with dynamic speed and outstanding quickness, burst and change of direction skills,” said Vikings DBs coach Joe Woods.
Although Robinson has been criticized for occasionally playing weak man-coverage, this is an area that the Vikings are willing to take a chance in. The young athlete will gain experience and mentorship under Minnesota’s coaches and veteran players, and hopefully this portion of his game will improve as the season rolls on.
Regardless, Robinson promises to be an impact player for Minnesota. Vikings fans can expect well-groomed zone skills and strong tackles from Day 1. Considering his speed, also look to see Robinson utilized for select punt returns.
“Very excited to get another piece. A young, very talented defensive player, especially in the backfield, and look forward to getting him here.” – Vikings GM Rick Spielman
Lindsey Young is a graduate of Northwestern College and an avid Minnesota sports fan[atic]. It’s been argued females don’t know much about sports, but she begs to differ. Currently working full time at her alma mater, she continues to edit and write for BleacherReport.com and on her blog Making the Call in pursuit of a career in sports journalism. You can follow her on Twitter @lilshortie2712.
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