North Charlotte Today

The Carolina Panthers' defensive line has shown significant improvement in recent weeks, recording 16 sacks and 29 quarterback hurries over the last five games. This uptick follows a slow start to the season, where they managed only nine sacks and 20 quarterback hurries in their first eight games. Several factors have contributed to this change, including improved team chemistry and strategic additions like D.J. Wonnum and Amaré Barno.

A key factor in this resurgence is the performance of defensive end A'Shawn Robinson. "I think this is the most opportunities I ever had to rush in my career and I'm capitalizing on them," Robinson stated after a game against the Eagles. He expressed satisfaction at proving his critics wrong: "It's a shot to everybody that discredited me in my whole career, said I couldn't pass rush."

Robinson's current season marks his ninth year in the NFL, with three seasons spent with the Los Angeles Rams. During his time there, Ejiro Evero was part of the coaching staff and noted that Robinson had limited pass-rushing opportunities due to Aaron Donald's quickness in reaching quarterbacks. Now as the Panthers' defensive coordinator, Evero benefits from Robinson's determination.

This season, Robinson has taken 262 pass rush snaps, accounting for approximately 47.45% of his total snaps. On these plays, he has achieved 20 quarterback pressures—his third-highest total so far—with four games remaining. His performance includes a career-high of 4.5 sacks and an average block shedding time of 1.14 seconds.

"I've been the best player since I came from college to the NFL," Robinson asserted confidently about his abilities on the field.

Evero praised Robinson's contributions: "A'Shawn is a heck of a player...he really excels at pushing that pocket." Dave Canales also highlighted Robinson’s character and dedication: "He's central to that identity for a group of just playing hard."

Teammate D.J. Wonnum commended Robinson's passion: "Oh, an A...He's been jumping off the tape." Offensive linemen like Ikem Ekwonu and Robert Hunt acknowledged Robinson’s impact during practice sessions and games.

Robinson plans to continue capitalizing on his opportunities as he aims for more success this season: "All I got to do is just dominate," he said.