In the space of about four months, Auburn offensive lineman Greg Robinson has gone from a relative unknown to a potential early entry draft prospect as a third-year sophomore. But his offensive line coach, J.B. Grimes, came with an stronger statement Monday about his starting left tackle.
"I think, could possibly be a year from now, the first player picked overall," Grimes said, according to al.com. "Without a doubt, I think he's that kind of player. I don't think that'll happen this year, but he's obviously a great talent."
Robinson told College Football 24/7 Saturday after the SEC Championship Game that he is considering early draft entry, and that he's heard he could be a potential first-round pick next spring.
Based on Grimes' lavish praise, it would appear the Auburn coaching staff believes it.
After all, there is only one real motivation for a potential first-round pick to stay in college for another year, and that is to be a high first-round pick. Not that Grimes doesn't believe his own words -- he probably does -- but "come back for the orange and blue" doesn't tend to work with college players of Robinson's talent. Its seems logical that Grimes thinks Robinson will eventually draw a very impressive draft grade from the NFL Draft Advisory Board, which Robinson told 24/7 he has yet to apply for. Why else would Grimes make such a bold statement? More likely, he is setting the stage for the Auburn staff's ultimate advice to Robinson: Stick around, and your stock could eventually rise ultra-high.
Grimes said he has no idea whether Robinson will leave school early or not.
But he's definitely got an idea of what it might take for him to stay.
*Follow Chase Goodbread on Twitter **@ChaseGoodbread.*
