Can Greg Rousseau provide a boost to the pass rush as a rookie for the Buffalo Bills?
The Buffalo Bills defense took a step backward last year and one of the areas they struggled with was getting pressure on the opposing quarterback. Specifically, they struggled to get consistent pressure with only their front four and needed to utilize more blitzes last year.
This was clearly a focus for general manager Brandon Beane and added a number of defensive ends, including using their first round pick on Greg Rousseau out of the University of Miami. While he has all the physical tools to be an elite pass rusher, the question is how much to expect from him as a rookie this year?
Profile
Position: Defensive End
Age: 21
Height: 6’6″
Weight: 266 pounds
Years of Experience: R
College Stats
Greg Rousseau essentially only had one full season during his time at the University of Miami. In 2018, he suffered an ankle injury early in the season and then he elected to opt-out of the 2020 season due to the pandemic.
However, the 2019 season was certainly special as Rousseau would have 54 total tackles, 19.5 tackles for a loss, 15.5 sacks, two forced fumbles, and one fumble recovery.
Expectations for the 2021 season with the Buffalo Bills
While Greg Rousseau has the potential to be an elite pass rusher with the physical tools he possesses, his rookie season may not be as productive. The fact that he had only one season at the collegiate level and didn’t play last year, may mean he needs more coaching and development before he can be a regular contributor.
The other thing that could limit Greg Rousseau’s playing time as a rookie is that the team is pretty deep at the position with veterans Jerry Hughes and Mario Addison, last year’s second round pick A.J. Epenesa, second round pick this year Carlos Basham Jr., as well as Efe Obada. The potential is certainly there but it may not be until Year 2 that fans really get to see what he can do in this defense.