Pittsburgh Steelers Draft Watch: Air Force WR Jalen Robinette

WR Jalen Robinette, Air Force

Strengths

• Speed/Size Combo Downfield
• “My Ball” Mentality in Contested Catch Situations
• Body Control/Concentration
• Explodes at Top of Routes
• After the Catch Potential as a Runner
• Strong Blocker

Weaknesses

• Scheme Concerns
• Limited Route Tree Experience

Highlight

Player Analysis

Similar to Martavis Bryant, Jalen Robinette possesses a rare size/speed combination which allows him to stretch the field vertically. Robinette has the speed to merely out run his Mountain West competition, and is so physically dominant at the catch point with his size and leaping ability. He also possesses an enormous catch radius and has the ability to consistently come down with passes in contested situations.

His “My Ball”mentality may be the facet of his game that could appeal to Pittsburgh the most. Unlike Sammie Coates, Robinette takes advantage of his size by comfortably boxing out defenders in contested scenarios. Robinette displays very good concentration and body control downfield to make some grabs that will make your draw drop.

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Additionally, Robinette’s game has a high degree of physicality, mostly due to the fact that he is primarily used as a blocker in Air Force’s run heavy scheme. Robinette is one of the more effective blockers you will ever see as a college wideout. Every game I saw Robinette consistently controlling defenders at the POA, even manhandling corners and driving them out of bounds on occasion. Having a WR with Robinette’s skill set would be a huge asset for Pittsburgh, especially as a blocker downfield paving room for Antonio Brown after the catch.

Where He Can Improve

In terms of his weaknesses, the conversation starts with Robinette’s route running. Due to Air Force’s simplified scheme, Robinette only has experience running a handful of routes throughout his career. While he will definitely have an adjustment period learning the entire route tree, Robinette has shown all of the traits to prove he can do so. Robinette displays very good explosion at the top of his routes, particularly on deep posts. Additionally, he has shown the ability to create separation with head fakes and by manipulating his speed.