49ers have pipedream chance of drafting this prospect after impressive NFL Combine
By Peter Panacy
For 49ers fans hoping edge Chop Robinson would be available toward the end of Round 1 of the 2024 draft, his NFL Combine performance now suggests otherwise.
The San Francisco 49ers would love to get their hands on another prolific edge rusher to pair with their All-Pro, Nick Bosa.
The only problem is that it's been tough to find. Edges Chase Young, Clelin Ferrell and Randy Gregory all achieved some modest success with the Niners at various points last season, but none seem to be a long-term solution, and all are pegged for free agency anyway.
So, where to turn? Especially for a cap-strapped San Francisco squad that can't overpay on the free-agent market?
The NFL Draft, of course.
One name who was certainly prominent in 49ers draft discussions, namely in Round 1 where they're scheduled to pick at No. 31 overall, is Penn State edge rusher Chop Robinson.
Robinson, who drew pro-level comparisons to Dallas Cowboys star linebacker Micah Parsons by NFL Network's Lance Zierlein,
Potentially seen as a mid- to late-round pick in the first round, or even a modest trade-up candidate for a late-picking team like the Niners, Robinson was certainly enticing after his 9.5 sacks and 17.5 tackles for a loss for the Nittany Lions over the last two years.
The problem, though, is Robinson just performed himself well out of San Francisco's draft range at the NFL Scouting Combine.
Chop Robinson wows at NFL Combine, 49ers now have almost no chance to draft him
The thought of the 6-foot-3, 254-pound Robinson falling all the way down to No. 31 overall was distant prior to the NFL Combine, but his workouts at Lucas Oil Stadium just cemented a hard reality that the 49ers won't have any realistic chance of landing him.
You can check out his full workout below or by clicking here.
In summary,
Let's let Bleacher Report do the talking on how well Robinson performed, especially that blazing-fast 40-yard time that'd be equivalent to wide receiver-type numbers:
"As expected, Chop Robinson dominated in the combine setting. As a prospect who flashed significant athletic traits on tape, this was his to own.
He didn't disappoint with a 4.48-second 40-yard time and a 1.54-second 10-yard split. Both of those numbers were the best among the edge-rusher group.
Robinson also posted a 10'8" broad jump that was tied for the top spot among edges. He has the physical profile that scouts will love and defensive line coaches will want to develop."
Related story: Max Melton is a prospect 49ers fans will want to watch at NFL Combine
Robinson might have just shot himself up into top-10 consideration in the draft now. While it's feasible he could have gone in the teens, perhaps even slipping into the 20s where a team like the Niners could have been comfortable trading up in the round, the edge rusher's combine showing pretty much set up a scenario in which San Francisco will have no realistic chance.
Barring a complete meltdown at his pro day or by some other unforeseen even between now and the end of April, Robinson will have his name called by some other team drafting well ahead of the 49ers.