In the high stakes world of the NFL, rookie linebacker Chop Robinson is already making waves despite not having played an official down yet. The Miami Dolphins’ first-round pick has been turning heads with his performance, particularly during joint practices with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
During these practices, Robinson had the chance to go head-to-head with Buccaneers offensive tackle Tristan Wirfs, a three-time Pro Bowler who recently signed a massive five-year, $140 million extension. The praise that Wirfs had for Robinson did not go unnoticed, as the young linebacker received some high compliments from the seasoned veteran.
“Wirfs is one of the best offensive tackles in the game right now,” commented Robinson. “So, to hear such positive feedback from him is truly humbling. I have a lot of respect for his skills and his ability to dominate on the field.”
Robinson, who was selected as the 21st overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, clearly gained a newfound appreciation for Wirfs during their interactions. The rookie was impressed by Wirfs’ speed and strength, acknowledging the challenges he faced while trying to match up against such a formidable opponent.
“He’s so quick off the ball,” Robinson observed. “I was doing my best to anticipate his moves, but his speed and agility made it difficult for me. I had to be creative with my techniques and constantly adjust my approach to keep up with him. He’s a tough player to handle once he gets a hold of you.”
These words of admiration from Robinson towards Wirfs highlight the level of talent and skill that exists in the NFL. Despite being at different stages of their careers, both players recognize the value of facing off against top competition in order to elevate their own game.
As Robinson continues to prepare for his first official NFL action, he will undoubtedly carry with him the valuable lessons and experiences gained from his encounters with a player of Wirfs’ caliber. The journey to success in the NFL is a challenging one, but with the right mindset and determination, rookies like Robinson have the potential to make a significant impact on the league.
