Texas Football: Which 2019 NFL Draft Longhorns prospects will declare early?
The most unlikely of the bunch on this list to declare early for the 2019 NFL Draft is also one that could see a big rise in his stock next year. Junior linebacker Malcolm Roach spend a good portion of the 2018 regular season out with a lingering foot injury. He didn’t get enough exposure this year to gain any draft stock compared to how he started the regular season.
Entering the 2018 regular season, there was some speculation as to the raw skill set that Roach could translate to the next level. He’s got the size and strength to succeed as a 4-3 defensive end in the NFL. The speed does have to come along, as Roach looked a bit slow at times coming off the edge nearing the end of the 2018 campaign.
However, one thing that could help Roach get some added respect for his 2019 NFL Draft is the presence he provided for the Texas defense when he returned from the foot injury. The steady hand that Roach gave the Horns front seven is something that could shine through in 2019 if he can stay healthy for a full season.
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Walter Football does have Roach listed among the defensive ends for the 2019 NFL Draft class. Although, Walter Football does have him as a very late projected selection in the fifth-to-seventh round. That places him 29th among a loaded class of defensive lineman in general. This seems like a pretty obvious decision for Roach, but one to still pay attention to.