Malcom Roach can’t believe Bryan Bresee. On Sunday, the Saints’ defensive lineman discussed the rookie’s unreal talent.
“Did you see it? I’ve never seen nobody spin on the line. Like, he’s spinning. Usually, people work it a few steps up and then spin. He spins on the line,” Roach said. “It’s cat-like quickness. He able to jump off the ball. For him being so big, it’s a sight to see. It’s really a sight to see. He has been blessed with a God-given ability to be that quick at that size. The sky is the limit for him, for real. Man, I’m glad he’s on our team.”
After spending three seasons at Clemson, Bresee declared for the NFL Draft this offseason. The Saints didn’t let the opportunity pass them by. The organization selected Bresee with the No. 29 overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft. A serious decision for a serious talent.
Bresee was the No. 1 recruit in the nation in the Class of 2020, according to On3 Industry Rankings. In three seasons at Clemson, Bresee amassed 50 solo tackles, 15 tackles for loss, nine sacks and one forced fumble. While Bresee was dominant when on the field, he struggled to stay healthy.
Bresee first sprained his knee at Clemson before eventually tearing his ACL and missing most of the 2021 season. In 2022, Bresee was absent for the beginning of the season due to a kidney infection caused by strep throat. To make matters worse, the Maryland native was forced to deal with the untimely death of his younger sister during his junior season.
Despite all Bresee’s setbacks, Clemson head coach Dabo Swinney is confident in the DT’s abilities.
“Bryan is a guy that could be a Pro Bowler for years to come,” Swinney said. “He has that in him. And I’m just excited for the Saints because his best football is in front of him. He’s really gotten himself healthy, but this kid has been through so much.
“This guy is the ultimate gym rat. He absolutely loves football. He’s passionate about practice, he’s strong and he’s just a guy that I think his teammates are going to love. He’s got a great spirit to him every single day. I think if he can stay healthy, he’s got a great future in front of him as a pro football player.”
With each passing snap, Swinney’s evaluation only becomes more poignant. Bresee was a standout for the Saints during preseason contests and is expected to make an immediate impact for the organization.
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