Initial draft grades for every Steelers 2021 draft selection

Round 6: Quincy Roche, EDGE, Miami

Grade: A

Easily the best value pick that the Steelers have made to this point, Quincy Roche could have easily gone a round or two higher. Add in the fact that he fills in a huge need as a reserve edge rusher and it is hard to not like this pick. He is one of those classic productive players that has below-average athleticism. That said, he put up some great tape while at Miami and Temple.

As a rusher, Roche relies on his instincts and pass rush skills to get after the quarterback. He has decent bend and a solid array of pass rush skills to his credit. Roche had 30.5 sacks while in school, an impressive number no matter his lacking athleticism. He has a clear path to the roster as well considering the fact that the only depth at outside linebacker is currently Cassius Marsh.

He needs to build up some strength and muscle as of now, but it shouldn’t stop him from playing on special teams early on. Long-term, his best fit is as a situational pass rusher and a rotational piece on the defense. He can overcome his athletic problems as a reserve. At this point in the draft, getting such a productive player at a position that was considered relatively shallow is a huge win.