Robinson has previous experience with the Vikings, Eagles and Raiders.
For edge rusher Janarius Robinson, a new chapter has begun with the Kansas City Chiefs — one he believes could unlock the full potential that’s long been evident in flashes throughout his NFL journey.
Before the start of the 2023 season, he signed with the Las Vegas Raiders’ practice squad. Across his two years in Las Vegas, he appeared in 16 games — with 13 total tackles, 1.5 sacks, and one pass defended.
Speaking to local media for the first time since signing in free agency, Robinson expressed gratitude, readiness and optimism as he joins a franchise known for maximizing defensive talent under coordinator Steve Spagnuolo and defensive line coach Joe Cullen.
“It’s just about coming here willing to work,” said Robinson. “Putting in the time and necessary things to put myself in the best position to reach the potential and be the best player that I can be.”
Finding the right fit
Robinson, 26, said his agent had been in talks with the Chiefs from the outset of free agency, and by the end of the process, Kansas City emerged as the clear destination.
“It came down to last weekend, we came to an agreement that that was the best place for me to be at this moment,” Robinson said.
A key part of the appeal? His physical traits — especially his 35 ¾-inch arms and explosive first step — align with the Chiefs’ defensive philosophy.
“Just to be long and athletic, be able to move and bend around the edge, and also play in the run game,” Robinson said. “It means a lot to be a defensive end in this National Football League.”
Respect for Spagnuolo and Cullen
Robinson repeatedly cited the Chiefs’ defensive coaching as a major draw. Spagnuolo prefers long, rangy defenders who can win with leverage and scheme discipline, while Cullen’s high-energy style has helped bring out the best in his linemen.
“Over the years, seeing how the defense plays and the scheme they’re in—I feel like I’m a perfect fit for that,” Robinson explained.
Ready to prove it
Drafted by the Minnesota Vikings in 2021, Robinson’s career has been interrupted by injuries and team changes. He’s had brief stints with multiple teams, but he believes this is his clearest opportunity to establish himself.
“First, I just want to give a special thanks to Mr. [Clark] Hunt, Brett Veach, and coach Andy Reid for giving me this wonderful opportunity,” he said. “It’s just about showing what I can do.”
Robinson is especially motivated by the chance to finally spend a full offseason and training camp with one team — something he’s never experienced in the NFL.
“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,” he said. “It’s very important to have team camaraderie… so when the wild blitz is flying, you know that person and they can trust you.”
The childhood dream still burns bright
Robinson reflected on his draft weekend in 2021, calling it “very special,” and noted how his lifelong love for football started under the guidance of his uncle, who oversaw his youth league.
“Just growing up, playing little league football… for a childhood dream to come to fruition, it really meant a lot,” Robinson recalled. “It was a very special weekend being around family and friends.”
Now, in Kansas City, he has a new goal: to turn that dream into sustained success.
“I’m 100 percent right now. Body feels good. Healed up from nicks and bruises,” Robinson said. “I’m ready to go to Kansas City and show what I can do—put it all together and be the player I can be.”