New England Patriots: Immediate Impact Rookies in 2015

Nov 1, 2014; Ames, IA, USA; Oklahoma Sooners linebacker Geneo Grissom (85) in action against the Iowa State Cyclones at Jack Trice Stadium. Oklahoma defeated Iowa State 59-14. Mandatory Credit: Steven Branscombe-USA TODAY Sports

Round 3, pick 96: Geneo Grissom, DE/OLB:

Another “reach” by Bill Belichick and the Patriots was their compensatory pick Geneo Grissom from Oklahoma. Grissom is a “tweener” who may be too small (six-foot-three and 253 pounds) to play 3-4 defensive end but may be best playing outside linebacker in a 3-4 in the NFL. He played defensive end, both one-technique and three-technique defensive tackle, outside linebacker, inside linebacker, and even tight end during his collegiate career. With his long arms he has the wingspan to create impact plays tipping or knocking down passes. 

Grissom is a pass rusher but turned off a number of teams due to them being unsure where he would fit on a defense. With Bill Belichick never shy about grabbing an athlete and shaping the player into a role rather than position, Grissom is the type of player who may have lucked out landing in the New England defense.

The addition of Grissom has already cost former 2013 seventh round draft pick defensive end Michael Buchanan a spot on the roster and forced disappointing 2012 second round draft pick defensive end Jake Bequette to move to the offense and play tight end. Grissom will likely break in as a third down pass rusher inside or spotting the other edge rushers when they need a breather. With his long arms and leaping ability, Grissom should be a weapon on the kick and punt block unit.

Next: Round Four