South Carolina’s defensive line coach Travian Robertson offered high praise for his former player Tonka Hemingway during a recent conversation, expressing strong confidence in the rookie’s NFL potential.
“I believe his greatest impact in the NFL will come as a pass-rusher,” Robertson said in a phone interview with Silver and Black Pride. “He’s a complete player who can line up anywhere on the defensive front, but I see him becoming a dominant pass-rushing force. He’s serious about his craft. He’s all in on football. For him, the focus never shifts. He’s relentless.”
When the interviewer pointed out that Robertson’s description sounded a lot like Raiders star Maxx Crosby, the coach couldn’t help but laugh.
“Yeah, that’s exactly it—I see a lot of Maxx in Tonka,” Robertson said. “And I think it’s a huge plus that Tonka will get to be around Maxx.”
That connection is already beginning to take shape.
Hemingway quickly reached out to his former coach after the Raiders drafted him in the fourth round, sharing that Crosby had already reached out via FaceTime.
“He was so excited—he couldn’t believe Maxx had contacted him,” Robertson said. “That kind of welcome means a lot.”
The Raiders plan to use Hemingway as a defensive tackle. Standing at 6-foot-3 and weighing 284 pounds, he’s considered something of a hybrid player. Even with his role on the interior line, Robertson believes Hemingway can become a consistent sack producer at the pro level.
“There’s no question about it—that’s just how he approaches the game,” Robertson said. “He’s got what it takes to reach that level.”
Robertson initially thought the Washington Commanders might draft Hemingway. Head coach Dan Quinn had shown significant interest, and that connection made sense—Quinn previously served as defensive coordinator for Pete Carroll, now the Raiders’ head coach. Hemingway appears to be a player that fits both coaches’ defensive visions.
Robertson confirmed that he did hear from the Raiders’ staff ahead of the draft and believes Hemingway is landing in a strong situation. Despite his quiet demeanor, he sees his former player as fully prepared to take on the next challenge.
“Tonka’s not a talker—he’s all about his job,” Robertson said. “He’s a professional already. He lives for football. Tonka’s a force, and I think he’ll thrive in Vegas.”
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