After 10 NFL seasons spent learning multiple defensive systems, A’Shawn Robinson believes head coach Todd Bowles’ defense might be the most aggressive fit yet for his versatile skill set.
With OTAs underway, the veteran defensive tackle discussed his thoughts on playing in Bowles’ scheme and how the young players in the front seven are coming along.
A’Shawn Robinson Is Prepared To Be “Active” On Bucs Defense
Coming over to the Bucs after spending the past two years with the Panthers, A’Shawn Robinson was signed to add a spark to the defensive line. While the group is led by Vita Vea and Calijah Kancey, it has needed more of an edge and nastiness that neither Logan Hall nor Greg Gaines provided over the past couple of seasons.
Robinson offers more than just attitude; he brings a track record of production.
Bucs DT A’Shawn Robinson – Photo by: IMAGN Images – Bob Donnan
The 2024 season was a career year for him in Carolina. Robinson recorded personal bests across the board, including 80 tackles and 5.5 sacks as an anchor upfront while star defensive tackle Derrick Brown was out for the season. Brown’s return meant a dip in box score statistics, as Robinson had 65 tackles and 2.5 sacks in 2025. Tampa Bay would surely take that over what Hall and Gaines provided. His ability as a run-stuffer pairs well with the other starters.
At this point in the offseason, it is all about the guys coming together and building chemistry from putting in time in the trenches.
“It’s working on our craft and harnessing consistency, day in and day out,” Robinson said of the team’s current goals. “Being persistent in the things we do, the way we work, and the way we talk to each other. Knowing that we’re working for the goal to be the best. There are no days off, there is no lack… we make sure we push each other. In the meeting rooms or whatever it is, so we can learn from one another, because there is always something you can learn from younger guys and older guys can teach younger guys.”
The defense has been revamped at every level, especially in the front seven. Robinson is expected to play a major role alongside Vita Vea and Calijah Kancey while younger defensive linemen like Elijah Roberts and Jayson Jones continue developing behind the veteran core.
All of this competing makes Robinson excited to be a Buccaneer.
Bucs DT A’Shawn Robinson – Photo by: Vincent Carchietta – IMAGN Images
After getting drafted by the Lions in 2016, he joined the Rams in 2020 before a brief stint with the Giants in 2023 and his most recent stop with the Panthers. The experience gained and lessons learned gives him perspective when assessing his fit in Bowles’ defensive scheme.
“It prepares me quite well,” Robinson said. “I’ve played in a lot of defenses, and I’ve played in a lot of different spots. This defense is complex but it’s also a defense that you want to be in if you’re a [defensive] lineman. You’re going to be aggressive; you’re going to put [offensive] linemen in certain binds. It’s going to let you be active according to the system that we’re playing.”
Being disruptive and versatile is right up Robinson’s alley.
“I can be anywhere,” Robinson said. “I can be on the edge, in the nose, in the three, in a nine. I could be literally anywhere. That’s what makes it fun knowing your strengths in those certain things that he’s calling. Knowing what he wants you to do, knowing how you can be aggressive because you know how the other guys are going to play it and see it.”
A’Shawn Robinson Shares Thoughts On Bucs Defensive Line, Rueben Bain Jr.
A’Shawn Robinson is making the most of the Bucs’ practice sessions to adjust to the defense and the players he will be lining up next to. Robinson was first asked about playing alongside Calijah Kancey, who he gushed about.
Bucs DT Calijah Kancey – Photo by: Cliff Welch/PR
“He’s a great player,” Robinson said. “He gets after it, he does the right thing, and he believes in consistency. We believe in doing things the right way, so I appreciate a guy like that. Having him next to me, he wants to be the best and doing everything the right way. That’s all you can ask for from your brothers because that’s what we’re here to do…”
Things got more interesting when Rueben Bain Jr. came up.
Expectations are high for the rookie outside linebacker, as he was the main addition to boost Tampa Bay’s pass rush. Robinson sees him fitting in, although they have something to address.
“It’s great to have a guy that can get off, rush the passer, and play with the intensity that he has,” Robinson said. “That’s powerful, but we still have to compete on those hoops [drills] though, he’s been talking a little trash; we have to go out there and compete and show him what’s up.”
Bain’s trash talk is for real, with Robinson seeing how ready he is entering the league.
Bucs OLB Rueben Bain Jr. – Photo by: Cliff Welch/PR
“Don’t think he’s just a little quiet little — nah. Don’t get it misconstrued or anything. He’s like that. He’s built for it. You don’t get drafted that early and not be ready. He’s ready.”
No matter how much optimism is in the air surrounding each NFL team, the expectation is to win. To turn all the talk into tangible results. It is one thing to talk about the process, but another to build a winning football team. That starts now, and A’Shawn Robinson is tasked with being a veteran leader who can help turn the defense around. He has enjoyed his early days in Tampa Bay, but knows the standard only rises from here.
“It’s been great, I can’t complain,” Robinson said. “Everyone wants to win here, and that’s what I like to do. Make sure I can do everything I can and do my job to make sure I help the team win. I’ve always cared about winning and coming to an organization that cares about winning a lot, that just brings me back home.”