2021 NFL Draft Prospect: Miami Defensive End Gregory Rousseau

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Welcome to our look at some of the 2021 NFL Draft prospects.

There are power rushers and speed rushers. Speed rushers can get to the quarterback quickly and really get the attention of the NFL’s defensive coordinators. The best speed rushers can keep offensive coordinators awake at night. NFL scouts are likely writing glowing reviews of Miami Hurricanes defensive end Gregory Rousseau. Why does Rosseau get so much attention?

First and most obvious, Rosseau excels at using finesse moves to get past offensive lineman. He has a lighter frame so he’s going to rely on his finesse to win in the trenches against the blocks. He’s the edge threat that is the quick solution to a defense’s need to pressure quarterbacks. He has the versatility to line up in the middle and challenge NFL centers too. He has quickness and excellent pursuit of quarterbacks. Rosseau uses his football instincts to wreak absolute havoc against quarterbacks and could be useful against the run as well. He is just more known for his pass-rushing ability. He may generate a lot of sacks during his rookie season and can simply get better with time.

Rosseau is a presence that can spark a defense at any time. Once he gets to the quarterback, he’s in the head of the opposing passer. He challenges quarterbacks to get rid of the ball quickly. In 2019. He recorded 54 tackles, 19.5 tackles for loss, and 15.5 sacks. These are the numbers that scouts, defensive coordinators, head coaches, and general managers love to see. Rosseau is a tackling machine.

He’s 6’7 260 pounds, he’s light for someone his height. He won’t be much of a power rusher so he’ll need to make sure he tackles at low angles. He’s not an overpowering physical rusher but if he gets his hands a quarterback or running back, the play is over. His pass-rush techniques and tackling techniques make up for his lack of size. If he bulks a bit, he could become a combination of the ultimate speed and power rusher.

The pandemic prevented Rosseau from playing in 2020. However, he should still be a first-round pick though there could be concerns about him not playing last season. He also missed the 2018 season with a fractured ankle. There is a slight possibility he could be a mid-first round pick rather than a top ten pick. He has top ten talent though and should be a top ten pick. Teams looking for the ultimate quick and versatile edge/interior threat should look to draft Rosseau early in the 2021 NFL Draft.