The San Francisco 49ers got a great Week 4 performance from rookie cornerback Rashard Robinson, and it is getting him some recognition. Pro Football Focus has a running ranking of the top ten rookies, and Robinson has shot up into the top ten. They have Robinson ranked No. 4, behind Carson Wentz, Dak Prescott, and Jack Conklin. Here’s what they had to say about Robinson:
A newcomer shoots up the list after dominating in his first extended action of the season. Robinson recorded 45 snaps through the first three weeks before playing 67 against Dallas on Sunday. In that game, he was targeted six times, allowing only three catches for 20 yards to go along with three pass breakups. After Robinson was one of the highest-graded corners in the preseason, it’s time to start asking if the fourth-round pick is the real deal.
Robinson appeared in this list back in Week 1 at No. 10. He was not targeted during his first two games, and then saw his snaps dip in Week 3. In Week 4, he moved into the starting lineup in place of an injured Jimmie Ward, and he produced in a big way.
Ward was walking without a limp on Monday, but did not participate in practice. With the 49ers facing a short week, there is a good chance Ward will sit again. That means Robinson could be in store for an even bigger challenge in Week 5. He spent a lot of time against journeyman Brice Butler this past Sunday. On Thursday, he could face any one of Larry Fitzgerald, John Brown, Michael Floyd, or Jaron Brown. It would be a step up in competition for him, and a valuable challenge for the rookie.