Congratulations to Darius Robinson on his first-round selection by the Arizona Cardinals in the 2024 NFL Draft. Robinson, the sole Missouri player chosen in the opening round, bolstered his draft stock with a standout performance in the Senior Bowl.
As part of the Cardinals’ dual first-round picks, addressing needs on both offense and defense, Robinson joins the team to fortify their pass rush alongside their earlier selection of top wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr.
Despite not boasting the fastest 40-yard dash time, Robinson’s ability to disrupt quarterbacks makes him a logical choice for the Cardinals’ defensive lineup.
With their recent signings focused on veterans, the team recognizes the importance of injecting youthful talent like Robinson for future success, especially considering his versatility across multiple positions.
The Cardinals, under defensive coordinator Nick Rallis, seek to improve their defensive ranking, particularly in rushing defense where they ranked last in the league. Robinson’s adaptability to plug rushing lanes provides a valuable asset to address this deficiency.
In a draft heavily dominated by offensive picks, Robinson stands out among the relatively few defensive selections. His pick marks the first time a Missouri football player has been chosen in the first round of the NFL Draft since 2017.
Robinson’s five-year tenure with the Tigers, a rarity in today’s college football landscape, underscores his commitment and development within the program. His impressive college statistics, including 111 total tackles, 21 tackles for loss, 13 sacks (8.5 in his senior year), and one forced fumble, demonstrate his impact on the field.
Expected to step into a starting role immediately, Robinson promises to make a significant contribution to the Cardinals’ defensive efforts from his edge position in his rookie season.
