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Pass Rusher Discussion

If we do not take a franchise QB with # 7 and the depth of corner backs in this draft we may look at another weakness...  Pass Rusher.

After the jump is some prospect profiles to spark a discussion on who is loved/hated between the top two pass rushers, please feel free to add profiles of any other QB killers

Robert Quinn North Carolina

 

6-5 270lbs Junior

Stats:

2008- 35 tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss, 2 sacks, 2 forced fumbles

2009- 52 tackles, 19 tackles for loss, 11 sacks, 6 forced fumbles

Pros:

Robert Quinn is expected to be the next great pass rusher out of North Carolina since Julius Peppers.  Quinn is a super athletic defensive end that possesses all the physical skills to take over games in the NFL.  Quinn has a rare initial burst off the line which allows him to get into the opponents backfield.  Quinn’s quick burst and overall speed makes him a target for double teams.  However, he has developed several pass rush moves that allow him to get around those double teams.  His 6 forced fumbles last season only enhance his playmaking ability.  Quinn makes his living in the offensive backfield.

Cons:

There is some concern that Quinn is undersized at 270lbs.  However, he is just entering his Junior season and will have time to fill out weight wise.  Along with a few extra pounds teams would like to see Quinn get stronger.  He has the speed rush down pat but needs to develop a power rush move.  He also could stand to be stronger and improve his run stopping ability.  Some scouts also feel that Quinn could move to OLB in a 3-4 defensive scheme but he would need to improve his coverage skills to do so.

Thoughts:

As of now we have Robert Quinn ranked #7 on our 2011 NFL Big Board.  Quinn’s athletic ability and size separates him from the rest of the defensive end class.  He has been incredibly productive at UNC and with another good year he will likely bolt to the NFL.

Projected Round:

Depending on team needs you could see Quinn go as high as #1 or #2.  He has so much potential that certain teams will not be able to pass on him.  Mario Williams was the last DE to go #1 overall.

 

Von Miller Texas A&M


 

Strengths:

  • Outstanding speed; eliminates space in a hurry
  • Elite first step
  • Very intelligent; knows how to set up an OT
  • Technically sound with footwork
  • Plethora of rush moves
  • Great motor and gives nice second effort
  • Extremely productive junior year
  • Terrific range
  • Fluid athlete and can cover a lot of ground
  • Smooth hips in coverage
  • Can turn and run with running backs/tight ends
  • Stays low and runs with the arc
  • Instinctive with natural feel for the game
  • Tenacious pass rusher
  • Excellent counter moves
  • Smooth transition to 3-4 scheme in NFL
  • Leader with good work ethic
  • Playmaker
  • Still has upside 

    Weaknesses:
  • Very small frame
  • Gets overwhelmed at point of attack
  • Weak versus the run
  • Hand use could improve
  • Needs to add strength
  • Strictly a 3-4 outside linebacker 

    Summary: Von Miller doesn't have the size you look for, but he gets the most out of his abilities and has an extremely high level of athleticism. With the 3-4 scheme in the NFL now, you don't need to be 6-4, 255 pounds to play outside linebacker. All you need is a great first step and elite speed, and Miller brings both to the table. I have a first-round grade on Miller going into the season and I expect him to have a big senior year and end up being a first-round pick. 

    Player Comparison: Elvis Dumervil. Dumervil and Miller are both undersized, but they are tremendously athletic and wreak havoc on quarterbacks at the rush linebacker position. 
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    This is a FanPost and does not necessarily reflect the views of Niners Nation's writers or editors. It does reflect the views of this particular fan though, which is as important as the views of Niners Nation's writers or editors.

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