 The Patriots added Oklahoma's Geneo Grissom in the third-round of the 2015 NFL draft. (USA TODAY Images) |
Name: Geneo Grissom
Position: Defensive End / Linebacker
School: Oklahoma
Selected: Round 3, Pick 97
Height: 6'3
Weight: 262
Strengths:
- Athletic and versatile
- Long arms, muscular build and NFL frame
- Strong burst off the ball, shows good pursuit
- Pass rush ability, can generate pressure from multiple positions
- Raw, but best football may be in front of him
Weaknesses:
- No defined position
- Lacks lateral agility and quickness, struggles in space
- Playing strength does not match frame
Expert's Takes:
"He's played all over the place at Oklahoma. He can be an edge rusher and can drop into coverage. He is an athlete, is versatile and smart, and fits New England." -- Mike Mayock
"Grissom is clearly a work in progress. Once he locates the ball, however, Grissom accelerates quickly and arrives with a pop. A team willing to gamble on his upside could be handsomely rewarded." -- Rob Rang
Analysis:
Grissom is an intriguing selection. The Patriots front seven is loaded with young talent and Grissom's athletic ability and versatility will be a nice piece for Bill Belichick to play with as he develops.
The Oklahoma product is still raw and the first step is figuring out where he will play or what his primary role will be as he transitions to the pro level. Over the past several years he's changed schemes, defensive coordinators and positions, so settling into a more steady environment could be huge for his growth.
Grissom has ideal size, build and length for his projected position on the outside. If he can contribute as an edge rusher in sub packages his rookie season, that should be considered a win. Based on what I've seen and read, his upside is worth the third-round selection. He's a player to keep an eye on during training camp, you can never have enough pass rushers in today's NFL.
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