With a typically stoic look and beard that adds a decade or two to his actual age, A'Shawn Robinson has never been the picture of emotional.

The Alabama junior defensive lineman isn't a big talker and the few words he speaks usually come at a low, monotone volume. He's been a key cog in Alabama's talented defensive line but he has a low-key personality and rarely shows any emotion in interviews with the media.

But after declaring for the NFL Draft and forgoing his final year at Alabama, Robinson had a heartfelt message for all the Crimson Tide fans he encountered his three years in Tuscaloosa.

"I'd say thanks for coming out and supporting us and cheering us on," Robinson said. "We love you and I love you all. I really appreciate everything you've done."

Robinson, who is expected to be a first-round draft pick in May's NFL Draft, is one of two Alabama juniors to leave early for the NFL. Heisman Trophy winner Derrick Henry also declared for the draft on Friday, while tight end O.J. Howard and defensive end Jonathan Allen are still weighing their options. Robinson said Friday he's had conversations with Allen about his decision but that he'd rather "just try to spend as much time around each other; you have to cherish time around your teammates." Robinson will fondly remember being around teammates that he loved during his time at Alabama.

The decision to leave Alabama early wasn't a difficult one for Robinson -- Nick Saban advises players to go if they get a first round projection -- but he plans to finish his degree as soon as possible. The junior has only three credit hours left and vowed to come back "any chance I get" to finish those last hours.

The timing was right for Robinson to leave Tuscaloosa for a lot of reasons. The first-round projection is the biggest reason, but a chance to go out on top was a big deal for the junior star, too. Robinson was among the most excited Alabama players Monday night after the Crimson Tide won its 16th national championship against Clemson in Arizona. Robinson, who at one point looked to have tears in his eyes, excitedly played with a young relative and had a big smile on a face known for frowns.

"It was great to go out as a champion," he said. "It was something awesome. We were 0-2 in bowl season my first two years so to win a bowl and a national championship was amazing."