Commentary

The NFL aware of Rams DE Robert Quinn’s dominance

There aren’t many college athletes that can sit out an entire year and still be considered as a top collegiate prospect. University of North Carolina defensive end Robert Quinn dropped slightly in the 2011 NFL Draft, but the teams that passed on him are now living to regret their decision. No one can argue that Quinn’s dominance on the college level has followed him into the NFL.

It’s difficult to evaluate a prospect after missing an entire season, but the St. Louis Rams saw the incredible 19 sacks that Quinn recorded during his sophomore season with the Tar Heels, and they simply couldn’t resist. The Rams already had quality starting defensive ends in Chris Long and veteran James Hall. Still, Quinn’s potential was intriguing and was enough for them to take a chance on him.

The keys to Robert Quinn’s success comes from one area in particular, and that is his superhuman athleticism. Of course, it also doesn’t hurt to be a 6’4, 270-pound tackling machine. Offensive linemen dread matching up with him, because he is a relentless pass rusher. He is a quick off the snap, which allows him move right past the edge of the line of scrimmage. Quinn’s excellent balance is another skill that helps him become a defensive playmaker.

Last season, the major bright spot on the team was particularly the defensive line. Quinn’s contributions alone created endless nightmares for offensive coordinators. He compiled a total of 50 tackles, 19 sacks, seven forced fumbles and one defensive touchdown during the 2013 season. He was one sack shy of winning the first ever Deacon Jones Award which is given to the defender with the most sacks. Instead, the Colts’ linebacker Robert Mathis won the award by earning 19.5 sacks.

2012: Quinn started most of the year and had a productive season considering it was only his second campaign in the NFL. He managed to obtain 24 tackles and 10.5 sacks.

2011: Quinn was being groomed to eventually take over and become an every game starter. He made an impact for the Rams despite having a reserved role. Quinn had a total of five sacks and earned his first career sack on October 30th, 2011 against the New York Giants. He also contributed on special teams by creating three blocked punts.

Source:  Profootballtalk.com,  Pro-sports-reference.com, Sport-reference.com

You can follow Johnny Gomez on Twitter @Johnny5not6. Be sure to follow Rams Talk on Twitter @TalkRams.

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