Dallas Cowboys 7-Round Mock Draft: Henderson/Kinlaw Pivot Point
By Reid Hanson
Round 4
DE, Alton Robinson
6-foot-3, 259
It’s all about explosiveness and position flex with Alton Robinson. The Dallas Cowboys may be losing Robert Quinn, last season’s starting RDE, and even if they can re-sign him, they need another explosive edge man to bulk up the unit.
We expect Randy Gregory to be back but even with the new tolerance towards marijuana use, I’m not sure we should rely on him for anything. Let’s look at him as a wonderful bonus. So finding another player who can play the edge with speed, is a necessity.
Alton doesn’t have the crazy bend that Gregory or Quinn has but he has a great first step and some natural ability that make him possible pass-rush specialists on the Dallas Cowboys. If Mike Nolan really does want to go multiples on defense, then Alton is a guy who can flex out as a pass-rushing outside linebacker. Then move back to the line in a 4-man NASCAR front in nickel.
He’s not a blank slate as far as technique and counter moves but he certainly could use more coaching. He’ll probably never be a great run-stopper but that’s not what he’s being drafted for. The upside is there and he could be a key player even in a small role in 2020.
Robinson is a project player who’s a liability against the run, but he has raw skills that you can’t teach and that’s why he’s the pick.
It’s probably time for some offense right now…