Quincy Roche from the University of Miami can help the Los Angeles Chargers with their disappointing pass rush. If the well-rounded EDGE rusher’s available in the second or possibly third round, he’d be a steal.
It’s true that Chargers general manager Tom Telesco should address the team’s offensive line in the first round. However, drafting a prospect like Roche in the second or third round would be optimal. The team desperately needs to get Joey Bosa help opposite of him, especially with Melvin Ingram likely moving on.
What Do The Numbers Say About Roche?
Looking strictly at his college numbers, many things stand out from Roche’s time as a Miami Hurricane. Roche accumulated four and a half sacks, 14.5 tackles for a loss, two forced fumbles, and recovered three fumbles in 10 2020 games. As a side note, that production was in his sole season as a Hurricane. Before joining the ACC conference, Roche totaled 26 sacks and 39.5 tackles for a loss, at Temple.
A breakdown of Roche’s snaps by Pro Football Focus shows he played 581 snaps grading out at 87.8 in the pass rush department. Considering he was playing against ACC-level competition, his grade is noteworthy.
Joe Marino of the Draft Network is high on Roche’s balanced skillset, so much so, he believes he can be an every-down player in the NFL.
“Roche has an expansive pass-rushing skill set and is a good run defender, making him a balanced defender that can contribute on every down.”
The Chargers Would Be Drafting A Balanced Defender…
Watching his film, Roche’s speed off the edge is impressive but more so, his spin move is eye-popping. He’s a good tackler, delivering devastating hits, those eight forced fumbles are evidence of that. His motor doesn’t stop on film, negating any height disadvantages simply outworking offensive tackles with his technique. Roche also displays some explosiveness, this was evident in stopping the run.
The Chargers need to generate more pressure and deliver more sacks to opposing quarterbacks but also need help in stopping the run. With Roche, it’s possible they’d be helping themselves in both departments.
Hard Rock Stadium. Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons