The Cincinnati Bengals drafted defensive tackle Landon Robinson in the seventh round No. 226 pick overall in the 2026 NFL Draft. The selection brought immense joy to Landon's father, 57-year-old Bengals fan Lance Robinson.

According to Geoff Hobson of the Bengals.com, upon being asked about the celebration with the Bengals rallying chant (Who Dey), Lance Robinson said, "Yes, a big, loud WHO DEY! is in order."

His wife, Patrice, broke the news over a phone call. Interestingly, the Naval Academy tackle, Landon was selected as the Pat Tillman Pick. The latter selection named after the NFL star who left football to serve as an Army Ranger.

Regarding this, Lance said, "The Pat Tillman Pick. That was huge. What an honor. That was beautiful. I was touched by that. To hear your son's name called, that sent me over the moon as well." 

For the Robinsons, who have deep roots in the military, this was the ultimate tribute. Lance, was raised some 35 minutes away from Paycor Stadium in Franklin, Ohio. His dad, Henry Lee Robinson, was a Master Sergeant in the Air Force.

Lance eventually became a gymnast at Kent State University, while his son Landon attended the United States Naval Academy and became the first-ever Navy player to receive a 2025 First-Team All-American honors in 40 years.

Bengals.com also reported that Lance is an avid listener of Dan Hoard’s Bengals Booth Podcast and has been listening to the Bengals Radio Network as well for a long time. And now he will watch his son take the field for the Cincinnati Bengals, as a professional defense tackle.

What Made The Bengals Choose Landon Robinson

According to ESPN's analyst Ben Baby, Robinson was already one of the players that the Bengals were targeting even before the NFL Draft. His drafting adds muscle to the defensive line considering his performances in 2025.

Former two-star prospect from Copley High School, Landon in three years and 38 career games at Naval Academy, recorded 153 total tackles, 18.5 tackles for loss and 14.5 career sacks.

According to Michael Hull of the Bengals.com, Head Coach Zac Taylor said for Robinson:

"Just too good to pass up... He did really well at the All-Star Game as well, that's another chance to play against different competition. That's the opportunity he got, and he took advantage of it. That's all the data and film you have access to. Everybody that watched him, liked it, and here he is."

Robinson credits his success to a combination of speed and strength in the backfield. It makes him capable of making his own plays, but also take on blocks and create opportunities for others on the defense.

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Written by

Aaindri Thakuri

Edited by

Rudra Dubey