30 Players in 30 Days: #20 — Qualen Cunningham

Notes from Billy's breakdown

• Qualen is not only important now, but is important for the future as well. When you lose Garrett and Hall after this year, his year this year becomes even more important to set the stage for his role next season as the potential anchor of the defensive line.


• He's flashed his ability and can certainly get after the quarterback. Insiders say he just finished up his best spring since he's been here and it stands to reason that he should have his best season this year.


• He's going to be one of the better backup defensive ends in the SEC this season and needs to prove ready to start if need be if Garrett or Hall get dinged up. He's clearly your third best defensive end on the team.


• Cunningham is an excellent pass rusher. He's not at Garrett's level, but who is? If we was the starter, Cunningham could probably put up similar numbers to Hall in terms of sacks this season.


• Cunningham is not a one-trick pony. He's a strong guy who can stand in and do a nice job against the run as well.


• You haven't heard of Qualen Cunningham much if you're not an A&M fan, but you will in 2017. Will have a significant role this year and will have a shot to shine next season. Could end up as an NFL Draft pick in the 2018 draft.


• Even if everyone is healthy, Cunningham will get to play a lot of snaps. Outside of a couple spots, Cunningham will get the most game reps of any of the non-starters.

Follow the entire 2016 30 Players in 30 Days here.

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