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 NCAA Scouting – Player Profile:
Quentin Groves, DE
by Paul Hopkins
16/3/2008
Despite playing defensive end for most of his college career at the Auburn Tigers, Quentin Groves is destined to move to the outside linebacker position in 3-4 defences in the NFL.
The all-time Auburn sack leader possesses all the tools needed to succeed at that level and is tipped to be a second or third rounder pick for those teams currently operating a 3-4 in the pro’s.
 The first thing to say about Groves, is that he is more athlete than football player. You let him out onto the field and he does his thing. Perhaps the most destructive force in the backfield of any player in the Draft, he offers exceptional value to a team, but he does require a lot of refining.
A classic workout athlete, who will have done his draft stock no harm at all at the recent Combine, in particular with his 4.56 40 yard dash.
Groves ended his career at Auburn, having played in 49 games, recording 117 tackles, 36 of which were for loss of yardage, and a total of 26 sacks.
Wherever Groves ends up getting drafted it appears that opinions are somewhat divided on him. Whilst some love his play-making ability and natural athleticism, others are somewhat sceptical, and feel that the projected 2nd or 3rd round for him, might prove to be a bit of a reach.
Having studied Groves closely, we feel that Groves can go on to become a top pass-rusher at the professional level. However, he would need time to develop into the role required in a 3-4, although it is clear through his natural speed and quickness he can make an impact right away as a situational pass rusher.
What we like about Groves
 As mentioned above (frequently) Groves is a stunning athelete for his position. Great ability, combined with top level speed and an explosiveness to boot. Reading those it’s not hard to see why he is projected to develop into a 3-4 pass rushing monster very quickly.
Even when not causing mayhem in the backfield, Groves is strong in pursuit of the ball carrier. He also has good strength and power to force his way through blockers if his pace is not sufficient.
Finally, despite what his detractors may say, Groves has proved what he can do at the college level. While undoubtedly, some tweaking is needed in the NFL, coaches will find they are working with someone with all the natural ability needed to succeed. Their job is to channel the unstoppable ability in him.
Question marks over Groves
Despite his tremendous upside, Groves has a tendency to lose his ability at some points. He can be inconsistent at times, and incredibly infuriating. This is something that will need to be worked on. His explosiveness is countered by his lack of a great motor. Consequently, he can be worn down.
 His stats and reputation at Auburn mask what can often be seen as a one dimensional approach to pass rushing. He can be overly aggressive at times, and struggle to get off the line against stronger and bigger offensive linemen in the NFL.
Furthermore, question marks do appear to exist over his work ethic.
Highlight of his college career
Aside from becoming Auburn’s all-time sack leader during his senior year, despite breaking several bones in his foot early in the campaign, Groves was also selected as a Coaches All-SEC First Team selection.
Other snippets
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Compares to DeMarcus Ware of the Dallas Cowboys
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Groves would be a good fit for the New York Jets, or any 3-4 defence.
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