Does Robert Quinn make our list of top pass-rushers for the Patriots?
If there is one thing that is clear going into a draft over months away, it’s that Patriots fans want a defender that can rush the passer. We’d like to hear which DE’s and OLB’s have tripped your trigger over the 2010 NCAA season and during the bowls.
Give us your top three pass-rushers, and of course, why you think the Patriots will draft them. As always, we’ll get things started…
Robert Quinn, DE/OLB, North Carolina
Quinn is the type of freak athlete that only comes around every so often. His trouble with the NCAA notwithstanding, Quinn projects as a perfect 3-4 OLB in the Patriots system. He has the height/weight/speed combination that Coach Belichick looks for, coming in at 6-5/260 and will run somewhere in the 4.5′s.
He is strong enough against the run to stay on the field for three downs, but will make his impact in passing situations. Our only concern with Quinn is on-field discipline – he needs to be able to stick to his assignment before going all-out to the quarterback.
If the Patriots are lucky enough to have a chance to draft Quinn, and they’ll have to be lucky sitting in the mid-teens, they would be well-served in picking this Tar-heel.
Ryan Kerrigan, DE/OLB, Purdue
Kerrigan is a very different player than Quinn. He is able to stay true to the run while getting after the quarterback, which, while being good for the Patriots system, limits his overall explosiveness. We also have some minor concerns with his ability to play in coverage.
That said, we believe that this Boilermaker is good for 9-10 sacks a year based on motor and effort alone. He has a great set of rush moves and will play to the echo of the whistle.
He is also truly a “Patriots Player.” His work-ethic is incredible and has exhibited strong leadership qualities while at Purdue.
If the Patriots want a productive football player with a knack for making a clutch play, forget about his limited upside and draft Ryan Kerrigan.
Aldon Smith, DE/OLB, Missouri
Smith is a one-trick pony at this point of his young career – he would strictly be a pass-rusher at the next level. Unlike Von Miller of Texas A&M, however, we think Smith has the physical tools to become a 3-down OLB in the Patriots system.
This Missouri Tiger is incredibly long and fast, prompting him to overuse his excellent swim-move to beat college tackles. It’s a very effective technique, but he’ll need to diversify on Sundays.
If the price is right, say late 1st or beyond, Smith is a guy that could pay dividends in sub packages right away, while learning how to play in rush situations as well.
Open Thread: Pass Rushers is a post from: NE Patriots Draft
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