Summary

Greg “Groot” Rousseau was drafted in Round 1 (#30 Overall) in the 2021 NFL Draft out of University of Miami. A unique physical prospect, Rousseau burst onto the national scene in 2019, recording 15.5 sacks, 19.5 tackles for loss, and 4 forced fumbles in his lone full collegiate season, earning First-Team All-ACC honors. His rare combination of size, length, and versatility made him one of the most intriguing edge defenders in his draft class despite limited experience. In the NFL, Rousseau has developed into a core defensive lineman for Buffalo, contributing consistently as both an edge defender and interior rusher in sub-packages. Through the 2024 season, he has accumulated 25+ career sacks, 50+ quarterback hits, double-digit tackles for loss, and numerous batted passes, becoming a key component of Buffalo’s defensive front. He earned Pro Bowl recognition and is widely praised for his work ethic, coachability, and team-first approach, embracing diverse roles to maximize team defensive effectiveness.

Strengths

• Elite Length: Long arms create separation and disrupt throwing lanes. Exceptional timing and wingspan affect quarterback vision.

• Versatility: Effective as edge rusher, interior rusher, and on stunts. Comfortable in four-man fronts with varied alignments.

• Power & Leverage: Converts length into pocket collapse with bull rush. Cerebral demon who understands blocking schemes and leverage points.

• Run Defense: Sets strong edges and maintains gap discipline. Shows consistent effort across high snap volumes.

Weaknesses

• First-Step Burst: Not a pure speed rusher off the edge, but will blend the speed he does have to power to dislodge tackles.

• Bend & Flexibility: Limited ability to corner sharply at high speed. Tall frame can rise, affecting leverage.

• Pass-Rush Repertoire: Relies heavily on power and length and his counter moves are still developing due to only play one full collegiate season.

• Elite Tackle Matchups: Can struggle to disengage quickly from technically sound tackles.

Outlook

Rousseau is an excellent fit for Buffalo’s multiple, one-gap defensive system, where his length and versatility allow coordinators to move him across the front and create favorable matchups. He thrives when aligned wide on early downs to set the edge and reduced inside on passing downs to exploit guards with length and power. His ability to affect the passing game without elite speed makes him a valuable schematic piece. Looking ahead, Rousseau projects as a long-term starting defensive end with Pro Bowl upside. While he may never be a dominant speed rusher, his length, power, and intelligence give him a high floor and sustained impact value. As his hand usage and pass-rush counters continue to develop, Rousseau has the tools to become a consistent double-digit sack producer and remain a foundational pillar of Buffalo’s defensive identity.