2026 NFL Scouting Report: Sam Roush

Prospect Summary:

Over the past three seasons, Roush was a consistent and valuable contributor for the Cardinal. Roush broke into the starting lineup as a sophomore and re-established the recent tradition of effective tight end play from Stanford tight ends. He caught 28 passes for 288 yards in his debut. As a junior, he was even better with 40 catches for 334 yards and two touchdowns. In his final season, Roush was superb with 49 receptions for 545 yards with two touchdowns. Roush had a strong Senior Bowl after the season.

For the NFL, Roush is a well-rounded tight end who is an effective blocker and receiver. He should quickly become a starting Y tight end as a pro. Many tight end prospects are finesse receiving tight ends who struggle to block, but Roush is big, strong, and valuable to contribute as a blocker. He is strong at the point of attack and shows the ability to seal rush lanes from edge defenders and linebackers. All good tight ends have to be able to block the C-Gap and pass protect. Roush shows that ability with the size to tie up edge rushers and is capable of handling the C-Gap with his ability to tie up and block in the ground game, pushing straight ahead next to the tackle. Roush should be an asset as a blocker as a pro.

As a receiver, Roush is a big target with enough functional speed and athleticism to be dangerous against zone coverage. Roush presents a big target going down the seam and running passes to the flat or along the sideline. Roush runs quality routes and has reliable, strong hands with a natural ability to snatch the ball. Roush is dangerous after the catch, showing a surprising burst to dart downfield after he makes a catch. Roush uses his big body to bounce off tacklers, and he shows a knack for ripping off good gains after making a reception. Roush does not have the speed and athleticism to separate from adept pro linebackers or safeties in pass coverage, but he has the size to win 50-50 and contested catches. Roush is not a dynamic receiving threat, but he could be a functional and good contributor to the pass game.

In the 2026 NFL Draft, Roush looks like a day-two pick and a starting tight end in the NFL. Check out my latest 2026 NFL Mock Draft to see where Roush is currently being projected.