The Rams upgraded their defense in the first round of the 2011 NFL Draft, as they took NC junior defensive end Robert Quinn with the 14th pick of the first round.
Here’s the scouting report for Quinn from Walter Football
Strengths:
Elite athlete
Speed and short area quickness
Explodes off edge
Gets off blocks
Pass rush skills
Long arms
Forces fumbles
Scheme versatile
Plenty of upside
Weaknesses:
Run defense needs improvement
Inconsistent snap reaction
Lacked production against top competition
Only two years of college football
Suspended for 2010 season
Medical – benign tumor removed in high school
Summary: Robert Quinn was one of the Tar Heels suspended for the season and as a result has a lot to prove. The athletic talent is evident from his sophomore campaign, but taking a year off is never a good thing. Nevertheless, he has the ability to play 4-3 defensive end or convert to outside linebacker in a 3-4. Pass-rushers are a hot commodity in the NFL, and he can get after the quarterback.
Player Comparison: DeMarcus Ware. Quinn has been quoted as saying he wants to be the “first Robert Quinn.” I’m afraid if I don’t liken him to an elite talent, he might come after me. He does have similar potential. Ware was also a work in progress against the run coming out of Troy, and while he timed faster, Quinn’s inactivity due to his suspension has to be factored in. Noted draft guru Mike Mayock of NFL Network expected Quinn to blow up the Combine – which is something Ware certainly did – but the time off prevented that from happening. However, Quinn has a similar innate ability to get after the quarterback.
Matt’s Take: The Rams want to pressure the QB more in 2011, and they are hoping that the junior can do that. He’s a solid guy off the edge, and also has great speed, which will upgrade the position. The Rams should benefit from this pick, a guy that will help the defense and it’s an area of need for the team heading into the offseason.
Source : http://www.nflgridirongab.com/2011/04/28/rams-snag-north-carolina-de-robert-quinn-with-pick-14/
