The Retort

Draft Preview: All Rhodes Lead to Rolle

February 19th, 2010 by Joe Olivo Of The Retort Staff

Florida State’s Rhodes Scholar Myron Rolle is one of the greatest stories in this year’s NFL Draft. Born in Houston, Texas, Rolle was ESPN’s number-one ranked college prospect coming out of high school. In his freshman year, Rolle recorded 77 tackles and one interception from his safety position. His numbers fell slightly during his next two years, with 68 tackles his second season and 62 in his junior year. He considered leaving college a year early to enter last years NFL Draft. His plans changed in a big way, however.

During his junior year he was offered a Rhodes Scholarship to attend Oxford to study medicine for his senior year. To do this he would have to give up his last year of eligibility to play football, a decision he has been criticized for since. “I know a lot of people are questioning my commitment to football and I figured that would happen. But this was just something that I couldn’t pass up.” he told ESPN.

Rolle continued to stay in shape during his time in Oxford, working out two hours a day and even playing rugby. He impressed scouts and talent evaluators at this year’s Senior Bowl, despite not playing football for over a year. “He is in tremendous shape. He is a lot bigger then I thought he would be for a guy who hasn’t played in as long as he has. He’s a lot more fluid then he looks on tape. He held his own during one on one drills and has all the skills needed to play in the NFL. He is a little raw in his technique but he has a ton of upside,” stated NFL network analyst Mick Mayock.

Rolle already has plans for what he wants to do after his NFL career is over. “I want to be a doctor, more specifically a brain surgeon. I would like to go to third world countries to help them get the proper medical care.” Rolle is already becoming known for his charitable work. He plans on opening a free health clinic in Steventon, Exuma, which is in the Bahamas.

While Rolle’s intelligence and intangibles have never been questioned, he still has plenty to answer, the biggest being his play-making ability. In his three years at Florida State he recorded only one interception and one forced fumble. In addition, while he is a strong tackler he has a tendency to break down in space and miss tackles.

As of now he is looked at as a third round draft pick with huge upside, however, with a good combine and pro day workouts he could see his stock rise. Regardless of where he gets drafted, this will be a Rolle to follow.

Height: 6'2”

Weight: 217 lbs.

Comparable at the next level: Chris Hope, Tennessee Titans

Projected draft spot: 68th overall, Kansas City Chiefs