NFL mock draft 2021: Four quarterbacks in the top five, Watson stays put
Scouting Report. EDGE. Gregory Rousseau. Pick Analysis. Miami. 30. player. 16
Gregory Rousseau is a player that has been tumbling down draft boards. Another one that opted out of this 2020 season that may be suffering the consequences of some recency bias. But in Rousseau’s case, it may just be a lack of consistent workload and experience.
Rousseau is an athletic freak that is as talented as they come. In 2019, Rousseau was second in the nation with 15.5 sacks and led the ACC in sacks and tackles for loss (20). The production is there and the talent and upside are evident on tape, but many are concerned with his lack of experience, as that 2019 season was really his only season as an edge rusher.
On film, you can see what would excite some teams about Rousseau, and why he was once regarded as a top 10 prospect. He has outstanding burst and uses his size and athleticism to work his way around the edge. He also excels when rushing from the inside, with his impressive blend of strength and speed.
Rousseau seems to be a popular prospect to “fade” in this NFL mock draft season, but his physical tools are exactly what NFL teams look for in an edge rusher. With his length and athleticism, any team would take a chance on a guy like him at some point in the draft. With his proven production in 2019, teams can believe that he can replicate that success at the next level.
The Buffalo Bills are a team that can afford to give Rousseau some time to develop. With Jerry Hughes and Mario Addison manning the edges right now, Rousseau and 2020 second-round pick A.J. Epenesa can have some time to learn and grow and could become a dynamic rushing duo in the near future.