Chop Robinson Seeks Redemption Amid Dolphins’ Struggles
The Miami Dolphins are in a challenging spot this season. With a record of 3-7, the team’s aspirations have been dimmed, and several players have fallen short of the expectations set during the preseason. Among them is linebacker Chop Robinson, whose performance has been a notable disappointment given his promising trajectory last year.
Expectations vs. Reality
After finishing the previous campaign on a high note, Robinson was viewed as a pivotal player heading into this season. He was expected to complement a pass-rushing trio alongside Bradley Chubb and Jaelan Phillips, forming a dynamic defensive front. However, with Phillips now playing for the Philadelphia Eagles, Robinson finds himself with a renewed opportunity to reclaim his form.
Just recently, Robinson was cleared from concussion protocol, setting the stage for a crucial second half of the season. Defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver has high hopes for him. “I expect Chop to be great,” Weaver stated. “The more he’s out there, the more you’re going to feel him in the game.”
The Dolphins have an urgent need for Robinson to step up. Weaver likened Robinson to a “volume shooter” in basketball, emphasizing that the more he plays, the more impactful he can be. While mistakes are inevitable, the hope is that Robinson will make more plays than he concedes.
A Shift in Snap Counts
With Phillips’ departure, Robinson’s snap count should ideally increase. Currently, he averages just 21.3 snaps per game, a stark contrast to Phillips, who clocked in around 40 before his trade. Historically, Robinson has seen higher usage; this season, he has not exceeded 24 snaps in any game since a 36-snap performance in Week 1 against the Indianapolis Colts.
To maximize Robinson’s potential, the Dolphins need to elevate his playing time to approximately 40 snaps each game. The team’s depth options, like Quinton Bell and Cameron Goode, are not as compelling as Robinson, a former first-round pick who excelled as a pass rusher last season.
Addressing Performance Issues
Despite his potential, Robinson’s statistics this year tell a different story. He has recorded only nine pressures and one sack, struggling particularly against the run. This season has felt like a classic sophomore slump for the Penn State alum.
Several factors contribute to his underwhelming performance. Early in the season, the Dolphins faced challenges in creating favorable pass-rushing situations, often allowing opposing quarterbacks to convert crucial third downs. Robinson, known for his speed off the edge, hasn’t been able to exploit opportunities effectively.
Moreover, his development in utilizing his hands has lagged. While he can leverage his speed to win outside, he lacks a reliable counter-move or power technique, making it easier for offensive tackles to counter his speed. Robinson has also been more susceptible in run defense compared to his rookie season, although he has shown gradual improvement in this area.
Looking Ahead
As the Dolphins prepare to face the Washington Commanders, Robinson stands on the cusp of a pivotal moment. The rhythm and strategy inherent in pass rushing demand time and opportunity—elements that have eluded him thus far this season. The hope is that Sunday’s matchup will allow Robinson to showcase his potential and steer the Dolphins’ defense back on course.
With the stakes high and the team in need of a spark, Robinson’s performance may very well determine not just his future, but that of the entire Dolphins’ season.
