It’s been a winding road to the 2024 NFL Draft for Arizona State cornerback Ro Torrence. Once at Auburn and Hutchinson Community College, Torrence wrapped up his college football career by playing two quality seasons for the Sun Devils. Torrence recorded 73 tackles and 13 pass breakups at ASU.
Torrence recently spoke exclusively with The Draft Network about his JUCO experience, having 34-inch arms, playing man and zone coverage, which teams have shown interest in him, and more.
JM: It's been a journey to the 2024 NFL Draft for Ro Torrence. How do you look back on the decision to transfer to Arizona State? You previously played at Auburn and Hutchinson Community College.
Ro Torrence: It’s been a long journey indeed. I’ve played through some ups and downs. I came out stronger on the other side. I had to weather the storm. Playing SEC football after going the JUCO route, it was a blessing to have that opportunity.
Transferring to Arizona State was the right decision for me. I’m glad I made that decision. I enjoyed my past two seasons at Arizona State. I strung together two quality seasons. I embraced the journey.
JM: There’s no doubt about that. What was your JUCO experience like? Everyone has a JUCO story.
Ro Torrence: JUCO was tough. Everything you’ve heard about JUCO is true (laughs). Going to JUCO, that’s when I really found out about myself. That’s when I turned it up a notch from a football perspective. How bad do you want it? You’re going to find out. I had to make positive changes, both physically and mentally.
JM: And you did just that. You recorded 73 tackles, 13 pass breakups, and two interceptions at ASU. What is it about your skill set that allows you to always be around the football?
Ro Torrence: I grew a lot as a player throughout those two seasons. I constantly got better. From my first season to my second season, that growth was evident. I played good defense. I played man and zone coverage. I used my strengths, my football I.Q., the things I’m good at, to my advantage. The ball just found me.
JM: Do NFL teams see you playing cornerback or safety at the next level? What's the feedback you're getting on that?
Ro Torrence: I can play both positions. I’ve been hearing a little bit of both positions from NFL teams. I can play cornerback and safety. I’m a football player at the end of the day. I’ll go out there and play any position. I love playing cornerback.
JM: You have arms longer than 34 inches. That's crazy! You're one of the longest defensive backs in this class. How do you use that length to your advantage?
Ro Torrence: I use my hands in press-man coverage to be physical at the line of scrimmage. If I get slightly beat in coverage, I have the length to recover and compete at the catch point. I can still get a pass breakup when the receiver thinks he has me beat. Length works to my advantage.
JM: Have you made any 30 in-person visits or virtual meetings?
Ro Torrence: I was at the Arizona Cardinals’ local pro day workout. I had a good day out there last week. I met with the Ravens and Chiefs virtually as well.
JM: We've appreciated your time today. What kind of impact is Ro Torrence going to make at the next level?
Ro Torrence: You’re going to get a physical defensive back that loves to dominate. I always give 110% effort. I put my best foot forward in all three phases, including special teams. I’m a relentless player that loves football.
