Robert Quinn Scouting Report
Pass Rush Skills: Quick first step and explosive off the edge. Can flatten out and get around the corner to the quarterback. Long arms make it difficult for tackles to get their hands on him. Uses an effective rip. Shows excellent closing burst and has a knack for jarring the football loose from the quarterbacks hands. Needs to develop more pass rushing moves at the next level, and that should come with more game experience. Had outstanding sack production as a sophomore in 2009, but didn’t play in 2010 due to a NCAA suspension.
Versus the run: Does a good job of playing the run, especially outside the tackle box. Recognizes it quickly and attacks the ball carrier. Ability to hold the point of attack is average. Does a good job at shedding blockers with his long arms, but needs to recognize inside runs slightly better. Can occasionally get swallowed up and pancaked by large tackles. Also needs to get a little bit more violent with his hands. He’s an excellent tackler and has some pop to his hits. Consistently wraps up when tackling.
Versatility: Very versatile player. Can play rush defensive end and is athletic enough to stand up and play outside linebacker in the 3-4 defense.
Instincts/Motor: Good instincts but still needs to develop in this area. Sniffs out screens and misdirection plays, but needs to be better with recognizing the inside runs and finding the ball. Top notch motor. Goes hard after quarterbacks and ball carriers. Is relentless in this area.
Intangibles: Received the ACC’s Brian Piccolo Award in 2007 as league’s most courageous player. Was suspended in 2010 for improper dealings with an agent. Seems to be a humble kid who got caught up in the wrong things. Coaches and teammates speak highly of him.
Overall Stock:Quinn will have to answer questions about his character and show scouts and coaches that he stayed in shape during his suspension. If all goes well, he will be one of the first defensive ends drafted in the 2010 draft. He has amazing athleticism and is scheme diverse. I look for a 3-4 team to possibly draft him, stand him up and let him pin his ears back after the quarterback. If his numbers from 2009 (11 sacks, 19 tackles for loss, and 6 forced fumbles) are any indication of what’s to come, some team is going to be really happy come April 28th.
NFL Comparison: DeMarcus Ware