We had a freak athlete edge in camp a couple of years ago that I had high hopes for (great kid, team-oriented and highly motivated, northern California and Montana roots) with measurables similar to Robinson:
Hardy's Pro Day
6-2, 235
34" arms
10" hands
40" VJ
10'7 BJ
4.57 40
22 Bench
6.78 3C
The comp posted above between Robinson and Micah Parsons doesn't show a couple of events where Hardy excels - 22 bench and under 7 second 3-cone. And how about 40" vertical? Future pass knocker-downer? Overall he tested out well enough to place among Parsons and Robinson.
Yet, Hardy didn't come in with the skills required to get off the line against NFL blockers. His sack stats looked great in a college conference where his strength and athletecism were enough. With the Rams he learned quickly, in the time he had, before being released and going to the Bears, where he's on the regular roster.
Point of the comparison, if there is one, is that Hardy and Robinson both are developmental players, great young athletes with lots of potential, who will need a couple of years of growth and development to become solid players in the NFL, much less reach their high ceiling potential.
When Hardy was cut there simply wasn't room for that developmental edge on the roster. Had he stayed through last year, would he be ready, now?
This year, another project at edge who costs a high draft pick is not what the Rams need. They need somebody on the edge who can contribute, starting now.
If, when we pick the other edge players are gone and Robinson remains, I'd expect the Rams to pass - and fill a different need.
Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 04/07/2024 11:07AM by mtramfan.