Broncos Draft – Countdown To No. 2: #6, Robert Quinn

Defensive lineman Robert Quinn of North Carolina runs through a drill during the 2011 NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium on February 28, 2011 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images)

The 2011 NFL Draft is now less than a week away and unless they trade down, the Denver Broncos will be selecting second overall.  We’re counting down the top seven prospects to be selected by the Broncos with their first pick.

Number six:  North Carolina defensive end Robert Quinn.  A 6-4 foot, 265 pound defensive end, Quinn would probably be ranked higher among top defensive prospects if he had not been suspended for the entire 2010 collegiate season.

As a sophomore in 2009, Quinn recorded 52 tackles, 11 sacks and two forced fumbles and was an All-ACC selection.  One of the upsides to Quinn is his young age (he is only 20 years old), so he could contribute on a defense for years to come.  During the NFL’s scouting combine, Quinn recorded a 4.70 timed forty-yard dash, a 34-inch vertical jump and 24 bench press repetitions.  He is expected to be a high pick in the first round.

My opinion:  Personally, I am a big fan of Quinn, but don’t think he is quite worthy of going second overall.  He only played two years of college football and hasn’t played football in a whole year, which cause some red flags to go up.  He has however, certainly stayed in shape and has tons of upside.  Contributing more in run-support is definitely an area where Quinn could improve.  He is an excellent rusher off the edge, can get off blocks, is very athletic, and has tons of upside.

Likelihood of him being drafted second overall: Moderately low.  The Broncos will be looking to address the defense and most likely the defensive line, so Quinn is an option.  With better defensive line prospects available though, Quinn seems an unlikely option for Denver.

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