Kirby Smart impressed by Ellis Robinson's mindset as a player

When Georgia lands a player of the caliber of Ellis Robinson, everyone is instantly interested in when we will see it translate on the field. Robinson is viewed as one of the best cornerbacks in the country, something Georgia has become accustomed to having. Not too many coaches are as good at turning an elite prospect into an elite player as Kirby Smart.

The development process has already begun for Robinson and one thing is sticking out early on for Smart. Nothing related to his skill as a football player either. Smart loves the mentality Robinson has brought with him to Athens, already having the right mindset early in his college days.

“Most impressive thing about him is he’s got the right kind of head on his shoulders,” Smart said via SEC Network on National Signing Day. “Very humble, great parents, they sent him to IMG, made a commitment to him growing up, going against the best.

“He’s been a tremendous asset so far, already being here, jumping in practice and just a great, humble kid that came to camp, worked out, wasn’t afraid to compete. A joy to be around.”

At the time, Georgia was preparing to face off against Florida State in the Orange Bowl. Robinson was not allowed to participate in the game but was able to get practice experience due to his high school semester being over. Being an early enrollee has multiple benefits and getting a head start is certainly one of them.

Robinson was not going up against just anyone, either. Georgia did not have too many players opt out of the Orange Bowl, giving the young freshman some reps against players with plenty of college experience. Smart did not specify how long Robinson has been on campus but he will participate in spring ball in the upcoming months.

Having the right mindset throughout it all, combined with the elite talent he possesses, points toward him one day being an elite player in Georgia’s secondary. It’s already a positive sign that Smart was praising his work ethic in the program just hours after officially signing him.

Robinson played high school football at IMG Academy, where he was a Five-Star Plus+ prospect. However, he considers New Haven, CT his hometown.

The cornerback was the No. 2 overall recruit in the 2024 cycle, according to the On3 Industry Rankings, a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies.