Nathan Robinson’s Breakout Season and the Steady Hand Behind It: Why Tennessee Needs to Keep Rodney Garner
NASHVILLE - A year ago, Nathan Robinson was a name buried on Tennessee’s defensive line depth chart. Now, he’s a key piece of the rotation - and a voice in the locker room.
The redshirt sophomore's rise wasn’t just about opportunity meeting preparation. It was also about the steady presence of Rodney Garner, the Vols’ veteran defensive line coach, who continues to shape Tennessee’s identity up front.
Garner is the only assistant coach on Tennessee’s staff still working without a contract beyond this season. While there’s optimism that a new deal will get done, players like Robinson are making it clear: Garner isn’t just another coach. He’s the heartbeat of the defensive line room - and his return matters.
“I think that’s really important to who we are as a defense,” Robinson said after Tennessee’s Music City Bowl practice at Montgomery Bell Academy. “It’s necessary that G is able to come back. I’m not sure how it would look if he left.”
That’s not just lip service. It’s the perspective of a player who’s lived through the grind - injuries, setbacks, and finally, a breakout year - all with Garner in his corner.
From 38 Snaps to a Starting Role
Robinson’s story this season is one of resilience and readiness. After playing just 38 defensive snaps combined over the past two years, he found himself in the starting lineup on Tennessee’s first defensive series of 2025. Injuries to Daevin Hobbs and Jaxson Moi opened the door, and Robinson sprinted through it.
He made his presence felt early, delivering a strip-sack in the opener against Syracuse that led to a scoop-and-score by Colton Hood. That play wasn’t just a moment - it was a statement. Robinson went on to log 276 defensive snaps this season, averaging 23 per game, and finished with 14 tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss, and 1.5 sacks across 12 games.
“It’s been a blessing,” Robinson said. “It showed me what I need to work on this offseason. I haven’t had a full, healthy offseason yet, so I’m excited to finally get that chance and really take steps to improve my game.”
Fundamentals First: The Ayers Effect
That growth mindset is already in motion. Robinson has been working closely with Robert Ayers Jr., who rejoined Tennessee’s staff for the bowl game after a stint with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
The focus? Fundamentals.
“We can all improve in just the fundamentals,” Robinson said. “It starts with my stance. Coach Ayers has been talking to me about shortening my base, compacting it so I can be more explosive, get a longer first step.”
It’s the kind of detail-oriented work that doesn’t make headlines but makes a difference on Saturdays. Pad level, extension, lockout - Robinson is diving into the technical side of his craft, knowing that’s where the next leap will come from.
A Leader in the Making
With several veteran defensive linemen - including Bryson Eason, Jaxson Moi, Joshua Josephs, Tyre West, and Dominic Bailey - set to move on after the bowl game, the leadership torch is being passed. And Robinson is already grabbing it with both hands.
He recalled a moment earlier this season, after the Oklahoma game, when Garner challenged him to step up - not just in play, but in presence.
“There was a misalignment by someone else on the line, and G called me out,” Robinson said. “He said, ‘Nate, we need you to be able to assist in that and get them in the right spot.’ Since then, I’ve taken pride in being that guy - making sure everyone’s in the right place before I even get lined up myself.”
That’s the kind of accountability that builds trust in a huddle. And for a young player stepping into a bigger role, it’s a sign of maturity - and of the kind of culture Garner has helped build.
The Garner Factor
Robinson’s development - both as a player and a leader - is directly tied to Garner’s influence.
“I have a really good relationship with Coach G,” Robinson said. “He’s believed in me through all the injuries. He gave me the opportunity to go out and contribute this year, to make plays.”
That belief matters. And it’s why Robinson, along with the rest of the defensive line room, is hoping Tennessee locks Garner in for the long haul.
Yes, the Vols have a new defensive coordinator in Jim Knowles. Yes, other position coaches - including William Inge and Willie Martinez - have already received extensions.
But Garner’s value goes beyond the job title. He’s the anchor of Tennessee’s defensive front, and his return would bring continuity to a unit undergoing transition.
Looking Ahead
Tennessee will likely dip into the transfer portal to reinforce the defensive line. But with Hobbs and Robinson returning, the Vols have a solid foundation. And Robinson isn’t just focused on holding onto his spot - he’s aiming to lead.
“I want to be someone my guys can rely on,” he said. “And I want to be able to rely on them, too. That leadership role is something I’ve been working on, and I’m looking forward to continuing to grow in that.”
For Robinson, the offseason represents a clean slate - a chance to build on a breakout year, stay healthy, and take another step forward. For Tennessee, keeping Garner on board would ensure that progress continues with the same steady hand guiding it.
And if Robinson’s story is any indication, that’s a relationship worth preserving.