He’ll go from chasing Patrick Mahomes to helping KC. And he’s ready to get going
Additional motivation is an advantage when playing against a rival. There’s also a hidden edge.
Familiarity.
In his two active NFL seasons with the Las Vegas Raiders, defensive end Janarius Robinson suited up for 16 games. Four were against the Chiefs and Patrick Mahomes.
“It will be a pleasure to be on the good side of things and not have to chase them around,” Robinson said in an interview with reporters this week. “It’s just a wonderful opportunity to be part of the Chiefs.”
Robinson adds depth to a rotation that includes starters George Karlaftis and Mike Danna, along with Charles Omenihu, Felix Anudike-Uzomah and Malik Herring. Tackle Chris Jones also kicks outside on occasion.
Mostly, Robinson seeks to get his career on a consistent track. A fourth-round draft pick of the Minnesota Vikings in 2021, the Florida State product was placed on injured reserve that summer and waived before the 2022 season.
He was signed by the Philadelphia Eagles but went on injured reserve there and never played.
Before the 2023 season, Robinson signed with the Raiders practice squad. He made his NFL debut in a Week 12 encounter against the Chiefs and a month later got 21 defensive snaps in the Raiders’ Christmas Day upset of Kansas City at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium.
Last season, Robinson appeared in 10 games. His career totals: 16 games, three starts, 1 1/2 sacks, one pass defended.
He also brings physical qualities favored by Chiefs defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo. Robinson measured with an 86-inch wingspan at the NFL Combine four years ago, longer than any player who attended this year’s scouting camp. His 35 3/4-inch arm length also checks a box.
“I think that’s the perfect thing just to be long and athletic around the edge and also play in the run game,” Robinson said. “It means a lot to be a defensive end in the National Football League.”
Robinson said he’s 100% healthy and relishes the advantage of spending a full offseason, OTAs and training camp with the same team for the first time.
“I think that’s ultimately why I made the decision now, to get an opportunity to go through OTAs, the offseason program, learn people, learn the playbook, build friendships and relationships,” Robinson said. “I think that’s very important to be in the building, build team camaraderie and be there a whole offseason and build that up.”
This story was originally published April 10, 2025 at 11:58 AM.