Jaguars select RB Keilan Robinson with pick 167th: Instant analysis and reaction

The Jacksonville Jaguars got an extra pick in the sixth round when they moved down from pick No. 17 to No. 23. They used that selection, the 167th overall, on Texas running back Keilan Robinson

The Jags' backfield is pretty much set ahead of the 2024 season. Trevis Etienne is at the top of the depth chart while sophomore Tank Bigsby and D'Ernest Johnson are the primary backups at the position. However, Robinson has the skill set to compete for a roster spot in 2024.

A four-star recruit out of high school, Robinson started his college career at Alabama in 2019. He opted out of the 2020 season due to the COVID pandemic and transferred to Texas the following year.

Behind Jonathon Brooks, Robinson didn't get much playing time in the Texas backfield. However, he got the most out of his chances, toting the rock 12 times for 134 yards with three touchdowns. That said, his biggest impact comes on special teams. As Demetrius Harvey of the Florida-Times Union pointed out on Twitter, the former Longhorn had a 95-yard kick return for a touchdown last year.

Here's the aforementioned return for a touchdown.

What should the Jaguars expect from Keilan Robinson in 2024?

At 5'9" and 188 pounds, Keilan Robinson doesn't have the size to be a three-down back. It's also hard to project a role for him on offense because of his limited playing time in the Texas backfield. On the other hand, he could be a valuable backup in the return game.

The Jags signed former First-Team All-Pro Devin Duvernay in free agency. He'll be the team's main returner next season, but Robinson could compete for the backup spot behind him. Last year, there was a steep decline in the return game when Jamal Agnew missed time.

Parker Washington filled in for Agnew, and Robinson will need to compete with him if he wants to be the main backup to handle return duties in 2024. On the other hand, if he shows promise in training camp, the coaching staff may feel comfortable moving on from D'Ernest Johnson, who also plays special teams and might be RB3 on the depth chart.

What grade do the Jaguars get for drafting Keilan Robinson?

Robinson won't probably get much playing time in the running back rotation. If he makes the 53-man roster, it will be because of his special-teams prowess. Having said that, his addition offers insurance in case Duvernay misses time.

Grade: C

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