Amik Robertson fired out a few tweets after the Raiders selected him Saturday during the 2020 NFL Draft’s fourth round with one common theme.
The Louisiana Tech cornerback has a point to prove.
Several points, actually.
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He discussed them Saturday in a conference call with reporters, hoping to make a few things clear.
Robertson's healthy after offseason groin surgery. He’s short, but as good or better than bigger cornerbacks in this class.
And, most important on this day, the Raiders made the right choice at No. 139 overall.
NFL
“I want to prove that Raider Nation didn't make a mistake,” Robertson said. “They got the best DB in this class. Ballhawk, corner, nickel, safety, whatever -- the best hybrid in the class that can force turnovers and get ball back to the offense."
While he was an outside cornerback at Louisiana, he’s certainly capable of playing several spots. That fits within the theme of the Raiders' draft, where speed, versatility and competitiveness were prized traits. It also makes sense considering Robertson models his game after hybrid defensive back Tyrann Mathieu.
[RAIDERS TALK: Listen to the latest episode]
Robertson should compete for a role right away, whenever physical portions of the offseason program or training camp ramp up despite undergoing surgery on January 17.
“I was cleared by Dr. Meyers a couple days before combine, so I couldn't compete,” Robertson said. “I guess people thought that I was still hurt. I'm 120 percent."
Robertson also feels underrated because of his size despite plenty of game tape showing him covering larger receivers well. That fact/perception has become a major motivating factor.
“I've been doubted my whole life,” Robertson said. “On the field, I'm going to prove to the world why I belong. I'm excited and ready to work. Raider Nation did not make mistake on me. When time passes, they'll see why."
[RELATED: NFL Draft 2020: Raiders keep adding speed in attempt to catch Chiefs]
Robertson was definitely excited after getting drafted, especially after a longer slide than he expected. He thought the Raiders could be a destination and was happy to end up in silver and black.
“I saw a lot of teams pass up on me. I was getting discouraged,” Robertson said. “[Raiders safety Johnathan] Abram and I have great relationship. I figured they needed a guy that can force turnovers, help Abram on the back end. It was a surprise, but I'm relieved that they believed in me and I told them that they're not making a mistake."