Logan's 2025 Saints NFL Draft Guide Pt. 4
- Logan Graffia
- Apr 12
- 21 min read
Part 4 will be the DL
Defensive Line
Donovan Ezeiruaku – Boston College Eagles
2024 Season Stats:
Tackles: 80 total (37 solo, 43 assisted)
Tackles for Loss (TFL): 20.5
Sacks: 16.5
Forced Fumbles: 3
Quarterback Hurries: 15
Pass Breakups: 1
Strengths:
Pass-Rushing Prowess: Ezeiruaku showcased exceptional pass-rushing abilities in 2024, tying Boston College's single-season sack record with 16.5 sacks. His performance earned him the Ted Hendricks Award, recognizing him as the nation's top defensive end.
Athleticism and Agility: Standing at 6'2" and weighing 247 pounds, he possesses notable agility and quickness, allowing him to effectively maneuver around offensive linemen and disrupt plays in the backfield.
Versatility: Ezeiruaku has experience lining up in various positions along the defensive front, making him adaptable to different defensive schemes.
Weaknesses:
Run Defense: While proficient in pass rushing, Ezeiruaku's run defense has been noted as an area requiring improvement, particularly in maintaining gap integrity and shedding blocks against the run.
NFL Comparison: Haason Reddick/Khalil Mack-lite
Projected Draft Round: Late 1st to Early 2nd Round
Darius Alexander – Defensive Tackle, Toledo Rockets
2024 Season Stats:
Total Tackles: 40
Solo Tackles: 17
Assisted Tackles: 23
Tackles for Loss (TFL): 7.5
Sacks: 3.5
Pass Breakups: 4
Strengths:
Versatile Defensive Presence: Alexander has demonstrated the ability to play multiple positions along the defensive line, effectively contributing both as an interior lineman and on the edge.
Pass-Rushing Ability: Alexander has a proven track record of pressuring quarterbacks, evidenced by his consistent sack numbers and quarterback hurries throughout his collegiate career.
Run Defense: He has exhibited solid skills in run defense, utilizing his strength and leverage to hold the line and disrupt running plays.
Weaknesses:
Lateral Agility: While effective in straight-line pursuits, Alexander's lateral movement can be limited, potentially impacting his ability to adjust to quick directional changes by ball carriers.
NFL Comparison: Malik Jackson
Projected Draft Round: Late 1st to Early 2nd Round
Yahya Black – Iowa Hawkeyes
2024 Season Stats:
Total Tackles: 34 (18 solo, 16 assisted)
Tackles for Loss (TFL): 7.0
Sacks: 1.0
Pass Breakups: 2
Quarterback Hurries: 2
Strengths:
Imposing Physical Attributes: Standing at 6'5.5" and weighing 336 pounds, Black possesses exceptional size and length, including 35-inch arms and a wingspan nearing seven feet, providing a natural advantage in engaging and controlling offensive linemen.
Run Defense: Demonstrates strong ability to anchor against double teams and maintain gap integrity, effectively clogging running lanes and contributing to a stout run defense.
Hand Usage: Utilizes powerful hands to shed blockers and disrupt plays, showing proficiency in extending his arms to keep linemen at bay and locate the ball carrier.
Weaknesses:
Pass-Rushing Limitations: While effective against the run, Black's pass-rushing skills are underdeveloped, with limited production in generating quarterback pressures and sacks.
Consistency in First Step: Needs improvement in his initial burst off the line of scrimmage to enhance his effectiveness in penetrating the backfield.
Balance and Agility: Occasional issues with balance and lateral agility may hinder his ability to adjust to quick offensive movements and maintain pursuit angles.
NFL Comparison: Eyioma Uwazurike
Projected Draft Round: 6th Round
Jamaree Caldwell – Oregon Ducks
2024 Season Stats:
Total Tackles: 29 (16 solo, 13 assisted)
Tackles for Loss (TFL): 4.5
Pass Breakups: 3
Strengths:
Run Defense: Caldwell demonstrates strong play strength and effective hand usage, allowing him to clog run lanes and absorb double teams, thereby freeing up teammates to make plays.
Competitive Toughness: He exhibits a high motor and relentless effort on the field, consistently battling against offensive linemen.
Short-Area Agility: Despite his size, Caldwell shows surprising agility in confined spaces, enabling him to disrupt plays in the backfield.
Weaknesses:
Pass Rush Ability: Caldwell's impact as a pass rusher is limited, with a lack of speed and pass-rush versatility, resulting in minimal sack production.
Overall Athleticism: He does not possess elite athletic traits, which may hinder his effectiveness against more agile offensive linemen and in pursuing plays laterally.
NFL Comparison: B.J. Raji
Projected Draft Round: Late 4th Round – Early 6th Round
Alfred Collins – Texas Longhorns
2024 Season Stats:
Total Tackles: 55 (27 solo, 28 assisted)
Tackles for Loss (TFL): 5.5
Sacks: 1.0
Pass Breakups: 7
Quarterback Hurries: 1
Strengths:
Run Defense: Collins demonstrates strong play strength and leverage, effectively controlling blockers and maintaining gap integrity, making him a formidable presence against the run.
Hand Usage: He utilizes powerful hands to shed blockers and disrupt plays, showcasing proficiency in extending his arms to keep linemen at bay and locate the ball carrier.
Pass Defense Awareness: Collins exhibits a keen ability to read quarterbacks and disrupt passing lanes, as evidenced by his seven pass breakups during the 2024 season.
Weaknesses:
Pass-Rushing Ability: While effective against the run, Collins' pass-rushing skills are underdeveloped, with limited production in generating quarterback pressures and sacks.
NFL Comparison: A'Shawn Robinson
Projected Draft Round: Late 2nd Round – Early 3rd Round
Joshua Farmer – Florida State Seminoles
2024 Season Stats:
Total Tackles: 32 (12 solo, 20 assisted)
Tackles for Loss (TFL): 8.0
Sacks: 4.0
Quarterback Hurries: 6
Strengths:
Versatility: Demonstrated ability to play multiple positions along the defensive line, contributing effectively in various alignments.
Athleticism: Exhibits impressive agility and quickness for his size, allowing him to navigate through blockers and disrupt offensive plays.
Run Defense: Utilizes strength and technique to maintain gap integrity, effectively anchoring against the run.
Weaknesses:
Pass-Rushing Consistency: While capable of generating pressure, needs to develop a more refined set of pass-rushing moves to increase effectiveness.
Hand Technique: Improving hand placement and usage will enhance his ability to disengage from blockers more efficiently.
NFL Comparison: Larry Ogunjobi
Projected Draft Round: 2nd Round – 3rd Round
Treqwan Thomas – Alabama State Hornets
2024 Season Stats:
Total Tackles: 64
Sacks: 12
Forced Fumbles: 5
Strengths:
Pass Rush: Thomas has demonstrated a strong ability to pressure the quarterback, as evidenced by his 12 sacks during the 2024 season.
Run Defense: He effectively uses his strength and technique to disrupt running plays, maintaining gap integrity.
Performance in Key Games: Thomas showcased his abilities on a larger stage by earning the Defensive MVP award at the 2025 HBCU Legacy Bowl, recording four sacks in the game.
Weaknesses:
Athletic Testing: At the 2025 HBCU Combine, Thomas recorded a 4.91-second 40-yard dash, a 30.5-inch vertical jump, and a 9'4" broad jump, which are considered average metrics for his position.
NFL Comparison: Elvis Dumervil-lite
Projected Draft Round: 6th Round – Undrafted
Elijah Williams – Morgan State Bears
2024 Season Stats:
Total Tackles: 54 (32 solo)
Tackles for Loss (TFL): 15.0
Sacks: 11.0
Quarterback Hurries: 2
Strengths:
Pass Rush Ability: Williams showcases exceptional skill in pressuring the quarterback, leading the MEAC with 11.0 sacks in 2024.
Run Defense: His 15.0 tackles for loss highlight his effectiveness in disrupting running plays and maintaining gap integrity.
Weaknesses:
Level of Competition: Competing in the FCS, particularly within the MEAC, may raise questions about his performance against higher-caliber opponents
NFL Comparison: Brandon Williams
Projected Draft Round: 4th Round – 6th Round
Landon Jackson – Arkansas Razorbacks
2024 Season Stats:
Total Tackles: 49 (28 solo, 21 assisted)
Tackles for Loss (TFL): 9.5
Sacks: 6.5
Pass Breakups: 3
Quarterback Hurries: 9
Strengths:
Size and Length: At 6'7" and 280 pounds, Jackson possesses prototypical size for an edge defender, utilizing his length effectively to engage and disengage blockers.
Run Defense: Demonstrates a stout base and strong hand usage, allowing him to set the edge effectively and maintain gap integrity against the run.
Pass-Rush Versatility: Employs a variety of pass-rushing moves, including bull rushes and long-arm techniques, to generate pressure on the quarterback.
Weaknesses:
Leverage Consistency: Due to his towering frame, Jackson sometimes struggles to maintain low pad level, which can affect his balance and power against shorter, more compact blockers.
NFL Comparison: Carlos Dunlap/Maxx Crosby-lite
Projected Draft Round: 2nd Round
Warren Peeples – Southeastern Louisiana University Lions
2024 Season Stats:
Total Tackles: 4
Sacks: 5
Strengths:
Resilience and Determination: Peeples' journey is marked by overcoming significant challenges, including not playing high school football, showcasing exceptional work ethic and commitment.
Pass-Rush Ability: Demonstrated effectiveness in pressuring the quarterback, recording 5 sacks during the 2024 season.
Weaknesses:
Consistency: Recorded a limited number of tackles (4) in the 2024 season, indicating potential areas for improvement in overall defensive contributions. Physical Development: Standing at 6'2" and weighing 230 pounds, very undersized for an Edge rusher, further physical development may enhance his performance at the professional level.
NFL Comparison: Shaquem Griffin
Projected Draft Round: Late 7th Round – Undrafted
Ty Hamilton – Ohio State Buckeyes
2024 Season Stats:
Total Tackles: 51 (14 solo, 37 assisted)
Tackles for Loss (TFL): 6.0
Sacks: 3.5
Strengths:
Run Defense: Hamilton demonstrates robust strength and leverage, effectively anchoring against double teams and maintaining gap integrity. His stout presence in the interior disrupts opposing run games.
Initial Quickness: Exhibits an explosive first step, allowing him to penetrate the line of scrimmage and disrupt plays early.
Football IQ: Displays a keen understanding of offensive schemes, enabling effective positioning and anticipation of plays.
Weaknesses:
Pass Rush Productivity: While proficient against the run, Hamilton's pass-rushing skills are less developed, with a limited array of moves and inconsistent pressure on the quarterback.
Athleticism: Lacks elite athletic traits, such as top-end speed and agility, which may limit his range and effectiveness in lateral pursuits
NFL Comparison: DaVon Hamilton
Projected Draft Round: 4th Round – 6th Round
Cam Jackson – Florida Gators
2024 Season Stats:
Total Tackles: 37 (13 solo, 24 assisted)
Tackles for Loss (TFL): 4.0
Sacks: 1.5
Pass Breakups: 2
Strengths:
Size and Strength: At 6'6" and 342 pounds, Jackson possesses exceptional size and natural strength, enabling him to effectively anchor against the run and occupy multiple blockers.
Run Defense: Demonstrates the ability to clog interior running lanes, utilizing his mass and power to disrupt opposing ground games.
Weaknesses:
Leverage and Pad Level: Due to his towering frame, Jackson sometimes struggles with maintaining low pad level, which can diminish his effectiveness against leverage-savvy offensive linemen.
Pass Rush: Limited sack production indicates a need for development in pass-rushing techniques and overall effectiveness on passing downs.
NFL Comparison: Danny Shelton
Projected Draft Round: 4th Round – 5th Round
Walter Nolen – Ole Miss Rebels
2024 Season Stats:
Total Tackles: 48 (25 solo, 23 assisted)
Tackles for Loss (TFL): 14.0
Sacks: 6.5
Quarterback Hurries: 4
Pass Breakups: 3
Strengths:
Athleticism: Nolen exhibits exceptional quickness and agility for his size, enabling him to penetrate offensive lines effectively and disrupt plays in the backfield.
Versatility: Capable of lining up in multiple positions along the defensive line, Nolen's adaptability allows him to fit various defensive schemes and responsibilities.
Run Defense: His strength and technique make him a formidable presence against the run, consistently clogging lanes and making tackles for loss.
Weaknesses:
Consistency: While dominant at times, Nolen has shown variability in performance, with lapses that can impact his effectiveness on the field.
Pass-Rush Technique: Although effective, Nolen's pass-rushing arsenal could benefit from further refinement and diversification to enhance his impact on passing downs.
NFL Comparison: Ed Oliver
Projected Draft Round: Late 1st Round – Mid 2nd Round
Omarr Norman-Lott – Tennessee Volunteers
2024 Season Stats:
Total Tackles: 18 (8 solo, 10 assisted)
Tackles for Loss (TFL): 4.0
Sacks: 4.0
Quarterback Hurries: 3
Strengths:
Pass Rush Ability: Norman-Lott demonstrates a quick first step and effective hand techniques, allowing him to penetrate offensive lines and pressure quarterbacks consistently.
Versatility: Capable of lining up in multiple positions along the defensive front, providing flexibility within various defensive schemes.
Strength and Leverage: Utilizes a low center of gravity and solid build to anchor effectively against the run, maintaining gap integrity.
Weaknesses:
Consistency: While he flashes dominance, there are periods where his impact diminishes, indicating a need for more consistent performance throughout games.
Run Defense: Although effective against the pass, his run-stopping abilities require further development to become a more well-rounded defender.
Experience: Having transferred from Arizona State to Tennessee, he has had limited exposure at the highest collegiate level, which may affect his readiness for the NFL.
NFL Comparison: Maliek Collins
Projected Draft Round: 3rd Round – 5th Round
Aeneas Peebles – Virginia Tech Hokies
2024 Season Stats:
Total Tackles: 31 (11 solo, 20 assisted)
Tackles for Loss (TFL): 6.5
Sacks: 3.0
Pass Breakups: 3
Strengths:
Pass Rush Productivity: Peebles led all ACC defensive tackles with 35 pressures in 2024, ranking fifth nationally at his position.
Versatility: Demonstrates the ability to line up in multiple positions along the defensive line, providing flexibility within various defensive schemes.
Weaknesses:
Size Limitations: At 6'2" and 290 pounds, Peebles is considered undersized for an interior defensive lineman at the NFL level, which may present challenges against larger offensive linemen.
Run Defense: While effective in pass rushing, he needs to enhance his run-stopping abilities to become a more well-rounded defender.
NFL Comparison: Braden Fiske
Projected Draft Round: 2nd Round – 3rd Round
Shemar Turner – Texas A&M Aggies
2024 Season Stats:
Total Tackles: 36 (20 solo, 16 assisted)
Tackles for Loss (TFL): 5.5
Sacks: 2.0
Strengths:
Versatility: Turner has experience playing multiple positions along the defensive line, including roles from 0-technique to stand-up edge rusher, showcasing his adaptability in various defensive schemes.
Motor and Effort: Turner is noted for his relentless pursuit and high-energy playstyle, consistently applying pressure and pursuing plays across the field.
Weaknesses:
Consistency in Technique: While athletically gifted, Turner needs to refine his hand usage and leverage to consistently win against offensive linemen.
NFL Comparison: Marcell Dareus
Projected Draft Round: 2nd Round – 3rd Round
Deone Walker – Kentucky Wildcats
2024 Season Stats:
Total Tackles: 37 (13 solo, 24 assisted)
Tackles for Loss (TFL): 5.0
Sacks: 1.5
Pass Breakups: 2
Strengths:
Size and Presence: Standing 6'6" and weighing 345 pounds, Walker commands attention at the line of scrimmage, effectively occupying blockers and freeing up teammates.
Versatility: His ability to line up across various positions on the defensive line, from nose tackle to stand-up edge rusher, showcases his adaptability within different defensive schemes.
Consistency: Over his collegiate career, Walker started 36 of 37 games, demonstrating durability and reliability
Weaknesses:
Play Strength: At times, Walker's play strength appears inconsistent, affecting his ability to consistently disengage from blockers and apply pressure.
Pad Level: He occasionally plays with a higher pad level, which can lead to reduced leverage and susceptibility to being moved off the ball.
NFL Comparison: Fletcher Cox
Projected Draft Round: 2nd Round – 3rd Round
Zeek Biggers – Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets
2024 Season Stats:
Total Tackles: 19 (10 solo, 9 assisted)
Tackles for Loss (TFL): 4.0
Sacks: 1.0
Pass Breakups: 3
Strengths:
Physical Presence: Standing 6'6" and weighing 320 pounds, Biggers combines size and athleticism, making him a formidable force on the defensive line
Weaknesses:
Hand Usage: Biggers' pass-rushing technique could benefit from improved hand placement and disengagement skills to enhance his effectiveness in pressuring quarterbacks.
NFL Comparison: Akiem Hicks
Projected Draft Round: 3rd Round – 4th Round
Nazir Stackhouse – Georgia Bulldogs
2024 Season Stats:
Total Tackles: 27 (10 solo, 17 assisted)
Tackles for Loss (TFL): 1.0
Strengths:
Size and Power: Standing 6'3" and weighing 320 pounds, Stackhouse combines strength and agility, making him a formidable presence on the defensive line.
Versatility: As a 2-technique defensive tackle, Stackhouse effectively contributes against both the run and pass, showcasing adaptability in various defensive schemes
Weaknesses:
Pass Rush Production: With only three career sacks, Stackhouse's impact as a pass rusher has been limited, suggesting potential for improvement in this area.
NFL Comparison: Shaun Rogers
Projected Draft Round: 3rd Round – 5th Round
Bradyn Swinson – LSU Tigers
2024 Season Stats:
Total Tackles: 49 (33 solo, 16 assisted)
Sacks: 8.5 sacks
Pass Breakups: 2
Quarterback Hurries: 12
Strengths:
Pass-Rush Versatility: Swinson effectively utilizes a combination of speed and power, employing finesse moves alongside a strong bull rush to pressure quarterbacks.
Athleticism: Standing 6'4" and weighing 250 pounds, he possesses the agility and burst to excel as an edge rusher.
Weaknesses:
Coverage Skills: While primarily focused on rushing the passer, his limited experience in coverage situations may require development at the next level.
NFL Comparison: Austin Booker
Projected Draft Round: 3rd Round – 4th Round
Sai'vion Jones – LSU Tigers
2024 Season Stats:
Total Tackles: 40 (19 solo, 21 assisted)
Tackles for Loss (TFL): 7.5
Sacks: 4.5
Pass Breakups: 2
Strengths:
Size and Power: Standing 6'5" and weighing 280 pounds, Jones combines strength and agility, making him a formidable presence on the defensive line.
Versatility: Primarily used as an edge defender at LSU, Jones has shown potential to transition to an interior role in the NFL, having lined up successfully as a 4i- to 3-technique during the Senior Bowl.
Weaknesses:
Consistency: Jones' impact has been sporadic, with moments of dominance interspersed with periods of limited influence, indicating a need for more consistent performance.
Pass-Rush Technique: While powerful, Jones lacks the bend, fluidity, or explosiveness on the edge, which may limit his effectiveness as a high-volume pass rusher in the NFL.
NFL Comparison: Jalyn Holmes
Projected Draft Round: 4th Round – 5th Round
Fadil Diggs – Syracuse Orange
2024 Season Stats:
Total Tackles: 45 (27 solo)
Tackles for Loss (TFL): 14.5
Sacks: 7.5
Strengths:
Explosive First Step: Diggs exhibits a quick initial burst, allowing him to penetrate offensive lines effectively.
Positional Versatility: His experience at both defensive end and edge positions provides flexibility in various defensive schemes.
High Motor and Leadership: A three-time team captain, Diggs is known for his relentless effort and leadership qualities.
Weaknesses:
Pass-Rush Technique: While effective, his pass-rush moves could benefit from further refinement to enhance consistency.
NFL Comparison: Austin Bryant
Projected Draft Round: 4th Round – 5th Round
Mason Graham – Michigan Wolverines
2024 Season Stats:
Total Tackles: 45 (23 solo, 22 assisted)
Tackles for Loss (TFL): 7
Sacks: 3.5
Strengths:
Athleticism and Quickness: Graham demonstrates impressive movement skills for his size, with a quick get-off that allows him to penetrate offensive lines effectively
Strength and Leverage: He possesses the strength to hold his ground against single blockers and effectively handles double teams, maintaining a wide base to anchor the defensive line.
Technical Proficiency: Graham utilizes a variety of pass-rushing moves, including effective club and swim techniques, and displays heavy hands to shed blocks.
Weaknesses:
Arm Length: His arm length is considered adequate but not ideal, which may limit his ability to disengage from blockers with longer reach.
NFL Comparison: Grady Jarrett
Projected Draft Round: 1st Round
Kenneth Grant – Michigan Wolverines
2024 Season Stats:
Total Tackles: 32 (18 solo, 14 assisted)
Tackles for Loss (TFL): 6.5
Sacks: 3.0
Pass Breakups: 5
Strengths:
Size and Strength: At 6'3" and 339 pounds, Grant possesses the prototypical build for an interior defensive lineman, allowing him to anchor effectively against the run.
Run Defense: Demonstrates the ability to hold his ground against double teams and maintain gap integrity, making him a reliable run-stopper.
Hand Technique: Utilizes his hands well to engage and shed blockers, facilitating control at the point of attack.
Weaknesses:
Pass Rush: While effective against the run, Grant's pass-rushing skills are less developed, with limited production in generating quarterback pressures.
Athleticism: Lacks elite lateral quickness and agility, which may hinder his ability to make plays outside his immediate area.
Consistency: Needs to demonstrate more consistent dominance, as his impact can vary between games.
NFL Comparison: Damon "Snacks" Harrison
Projected Draft Round: 2nd Round – 3rd Round
CJ West – Indiana Hoosiers
2024 Season Stats:
Total Tackles: 40 (14 solo, 26 assisted)
Tackles for Loss (TFL): 7.5
Sacks: 2.0
Strengths:
Run Defense: West demonstrates a robust ability to anchor against the run, effectively maintaining gap integrity and disrupting opposing ground games.
Leverage and Strength: His compact frame provides a natural leverage advantage, allowing him to play beneath blockers' pads and control the line of scrimmage
Weaknesses:
Pass Rush: While effective against the run, West's pass-rushing repertoire is somewhat limited, relying more on power than technique to pressure quarterbacks.
NFL Comparison: D.J. Reader
Projected Draft Round: 5th Round – 6th Round
Jordan Phillips – Maryland Terrapins
2024 Season Stats:
Total Tackles: 29 (17 solo, 12 assisted)
Tackles for Loss (TFL): 1
Sacks: 0
Strengths:
Run Defense: Phillips demonstrates a robust ability to anchor against the run, effectively maintaining gap integrity and disrupting opposing ground games.
Leverage and Strength: His compact frame provides a natural leverage advantage, allowing him to play beneath blockers' pads and control the line of scrimmage.
Weaknesses:
Pass Rush: While effective against the run, Phillips's pass-rushing skills are less developed, with limited production in generating quarterback pressures.
Consistency: There are instances where Phillips's impact varies between games, suggesting a need for more consistent performance levels.
NFL Comparison: Letroy Guion
Projected Draft Round: 4th Round – 5th Round
Eric Gregory – Arkansas Razorbacks
2024 Season Stats:
Total Tackles: 42 (17 solo, 25 assisted)
Tackles for Loss (TFL): 5.0
Sacks: 3.0
Pass Breakups: 1
Quarterback Hurries: 5
Strengths:
Versatility: Gregory has experience playing multiple positions along the defensive line, showcasing adaptability to various defensive schemes.
Run Defense: Demonstrates solid ability to anchor against the run, effectively maintaining gap integrity and contributing to run-stopping efforts.
Weaknesses:
Pass Rush: While effective against the run, Gregory's pass-rushing skills are less developed, with moderate production in generating quarterback pressures.
NFL Comparison: Maliek Collins
Projected Draft Round: 5th Round – 6th Round
Desmond Watson – Florida Gators
2024 Season Stats:
Total Tackles: 63
Tackles for Loss (TFL): 4.0
Sacks: 1.5
Strengths:
Run-Stopping Ability: Watson's massive frame allows him to clog running lanes effectively, making him a formidable presence against the run.
Strength: At Florida's Pro Day, he bench-pressed 225 pounds 36 times, showcasing his upper-body strength
Weaknesses:
Pass Rush: Watson's pass-rushing skills are less developed, with limited production in generating quarterback pressures.
NFL Comparison: John Jenkins
Projected Draft Round: 6th Round – 7th Round
Joe Evans – UTSA Roadrunners
2024 Season Stats:
Total Tackles: 5 (1 solo, 4 assisted)
Tackles for Loss (TFL): 1.5
Sacks: 1
Strengths:
Run Defense: Evans demonstrates a robust ability to anchor against the run, effectively maintaining gap integrity and disrupting opposing ground games.
Leverage and Strength: His compact frame provides a natural leverage advantage, allowing him to play beneath blockers' pads and control the line of scrimmage.
Weaknesses:
Pass Rush: While effective against the run, Evans's pass-rushing skills are less developed, with limited production in generating quarterback pressures.
NFL Comparison: Hollis Thomas
Projected Draft Round: 7th Round – Undrafted
Cam Horsley – Boston College Eagles
2024 Season Stats:
Total Tackles: 42 (16 solo, 26 assisted)
Tackles for Loss (TFL): 7.0
Pass Breakups: 3
Quarterback Hurries: 3
Strengths:
Run Defense: Horsley excels at anchoring against double teams, maintaining ground, and effectively defending interior runs. His powerful hands and natural leverage allow him to stack and shed blockers with authority.
Football IQ: Demonstrates advanced diagnostic skills, quickly identifying blocking patterns and maintaining gap discipline, contributing significantly to the defensive structure.
Weaknesses:
Pass Rush: Horsley's pass-rushing skills are limited, primarily relying on a bull rush without complementary counter moves. His pass rush tends to lose effectiveness quickly, and he was not utilized in passing situations, resulting in minimal sack production.
NFL Comparison: Teair Tart
Projected Draft Round: 6th Round – 7th Round
Elijah Roberts – SMU Mustangs
2024 Season Stats:
Total Tackles: 35 (17 solo, 18 assisted)
Tackles for Loss (TFL): 11.0
Sacks: 7.5
Strengths:
Versatility: Roberts showcased adaptability by lining up in various positions, from 3-technique to wide 9, effectively disrupting both the run and pass game.
Pass Rush: Demonstrated a strong bull rush, leading to a total of 17.5 sacks over his final two seasons, including two sacks in the College Football Playoff against Penn State.
Weaknesses:
Lateral Agility: Roberts's lateral movement is less fluid, which can affect his effectiveness in space and when changing directions.
NFL Comparison: Chris Canty
Projected Draft Round: 4th Round – 5th Round
Tyler Baron – Miami Hurricanes
2024 Season Stats:
Total Tackles: 38
Tackles for Loss (TFL): 11.0
Sacks: 5.5
Strengths:
Pass-Rushing Prowess: Baron excels in one-on-one situations, utilizing his strength and leverage to win pass-rush battles.
Versatility: His physical attributes allow him to line up in various positions across the defensive front, making him a flexible asset in different defensive schemes
Weaknesses:
Consistency: While Baron has demonstrated high-level play, maintaining consistent performance throughout games and seasons is an area for improvement.
NFL Comparison: Dante Fowler Jr.
Projected Draft Round: 3rd Round – 4th Round
Elijah Ponder – Cal Poly Mustangs
2024 Season Stats:
Total Tackles: 40
Tackles for Loss (TFL): 12.5
Sacks: 7.0
Strengths:
Explosive First Step: Ponder demonstrates a quick burst off the line of scrimmage, allowing him to penetrate the backfield effectively and disrupt offensive plays.
Weaknesses:
Hand Technique: Ponder's hand usage can be inconsistent, which sometimes hinders his ability to disengage from blockers efficiently.
NFL Comparison: Aaron Lynch
Projected Draft Round: 5th Round – 6th Round
Que Robinson – Alabama Crimson Tide
2024 Season Stats:
Total Tackles: 23
Tackles for Loss (TFL): 7.0
Sacks: 4.0
Strengths:
Elite Explosion & Quickness: Robinson has an explosive first step, displaying great burst off the ball, which allows him to immediately challenge offensive linemen. His initial quickness is a key asset in generating pressure, especially when working against slower tackles.
Versatile Skill Set: While his primary role has been as a pass rusher, Robinson shows promise in various defensive schemes. He’s comfortable lining up as a 4-3 defensive end or in 3-4 outside linebacker roles, giving defensive coordinators flexibility in how they utilize him. His adaptability will be valuable at the next level.
Motor & Aggressiveness: Robinson plays with a relentless motor, staying active on every snap. He fights through blocks and works to the whistle, which is vital for generating second-chance pressures or tackles for loss.
Powerful Lower Body: His lower body strength allows him to anchor and shed blockers, especially in run defense. Robinson uses his legs to stay balanced and avoid getting washed out by offensive linemen, maintaining leverage against larger blockers.
Weaknesses:
Inconsistent Hand Technique: While Robinson has the physical tools, his hand placement and usage need refinement. At times, he struggles to disengage from blockers, especially when facing well-coached linemen. His lack of a polished pass-rush plan can be limiting when he’s not relying purely on athleticism.
Poor Pad Level: At times, Robinson's height and frame work against him as he doesn’t maintain a consistently low pad level. This can lead to leverage issues when battling against shorter, more compact blockers, especially in tight spaces.
Lack of Refinement in Pass-Rush Moves: Robinson's rush moves lack the fluidity and variety needed to consistently beat high-level offensive linemen. He often relies on a bull rush or speed rush, which can be neutralized by seasoned offensive tackles who know how to handle straight-line speed.
NFL Comparison: Tim Williams
Projected Draft Round: 5th Round – 6th Round
Sean Martin – West Virginia Mountaineers
2024 Season Stats:
Total Tackles: 23
Tackles for Loss (TFL): 5.5
Sacks: 3.5
Strengths:
Size and Strength: Standing 6'5" and weighing 295 lbs, Martin possesses the ideal frame for a defensive lineman, combining height, weight, and strength to excel at the point of attack.
Weaknesses:
Pass Rush Technique: While Martin has shown the ability to generate pressure, his pass-rush moves are still developing, and he can struggle to consistently disengage from blockers, limiting his effectiveness as a pass rusher.
NFL Comparison: Tyler Lancaster
Projected Draft Round: 6th Round – 7th Round
Nash Hutmacher – Nebraska Cornhuskers
2024 Season Stats:
Total Tackles: 24
Tackles for Loss (TFL): 4.0
Sacks: 2.0
Strengths:
Physical Presence: Standing 6'4" and weighing 310 lbs, Hutmacher combines size and strength, making him a formidable presence on the defensive line.
Disruption Skills: His ability to penetrate the backfield is evident with 4.0 tackles for loss and 2.0 sacks, showcasing his disruptive nature.
Consistency: Over 13 games, Hutmacher maintained steady production, averaging 1.85 tackles per game, reflecting his reliability.
Weaknesses:
Pass Rush Technique: While effective, Hutmacher's pass-rush moves could benefit from refinement to increase sack production.
Lateral Quickness: Improving agility could enhance his ability to counteract mobile quarterbacks and sideline plays.
NFL Comparison: Brandon Mebane
Projected Draft Round: 6th Round – 7th Round
Jay Toia – UCLA Bruins
2024 Season Stats:
Total Tackles: 25 (15 solo, 10 assisted)
Tackles for Loss (TFL): 2.0
Sacks: 1.0
Strengths:
Run Defense: Toia plays with a high motor and is strong in gap control, especially against inside runs. His ability to absorb blockers and stay disciplined makes him a strong piece in the run defense.
Size and Power: At 6'2" and 330 pounds, he brings considerable physicality to the line. His size allows him to clog running lanes, making him tough to move in short-yardage situations.
Experience: With significant experience in a major program like UCLA, Toia has faced a variety of offensive schemes, which gives him a high football IQ and understanding of blocking patterns.
Weaknesses:
Pass Rush Impact: Toia has shown only moderate ability as a pass rusher, and while he can collapse the pocket, his sack production has been low. His skill set is more oriented toward run defense, and he will need to refine his technique to become a better disruptor in passing situations.
Mobility Issues: His size is an asset in some situations, but it can also be a disadvantage in terms of quickness and flexibility. He lacks the twitchiness that some of the more explosive interior defenders have, which could make it harder to beat faster, more agile offensive linemen at the next level.
NFL Comparison: Akiem Hicks
Projected Draft Round: 6th Round – 7th Round
Jared Harrison-Hunte – SMU Mustangs
2024 Season Stats:
Total Tackles: 42 (18 solo, 24 assisted)
Tackles for Loss (TFL): 8.5
Sacks: 6.5
Strengths:
Pass-Rushing Ability: Harrison-Hunte's 6.5 sacks in the 2024 season highlight his effectiveness in pressuring quarterbacks.
Run Defense: His 8.5 tackles for loss demonstrate his capability to disrupt opposing running games.
Weaknesses:
Consistency: While impactful, maintaining high-level performance throughout games and seasons is an area for improvement.
NFL Comparison: Chris Canty
Projected Draft Round: 5th Round – 6th Round
Warren Brinson – Georgia Bulldogs
2024 Season Stats:
Total Tackles: 26 (20 solo, 6 assisted)
Tackles for Loss (TFL): 6.0
Sacks: 2.0
Strengths:
Run Defense: Brinson's size (6'4", 310 lbs) and strength make him effective at clogging running lanes and disrupting the opponent's ground game.
Pass Rush: With 2.0 sacks and consistent quarterback pressures, he has shown capability in pressuring the quarterback.
Weaknesses:
Consistency: While impactful, Brinson's performance has varied, and maintaining a high level throughout games and seasons could be improved.
NFL Comparison: Jay Ratliff
Projected Draft Round: 6th Round – 7th Round
Ethan Downs – Oklahoma Sooners
2024 Season Stats:
Total Tackles: 29
Tackles for Loss (TFL): 9.0
Sacks: 3.0
Strengths:
Run Defense: Downs excels in setting the edge and maintaining gap integrity, making him a reliable asset against the run.
Football IQ: His ability to read plays, especially screens and misdirections, showcases his high football intelligence.
Motor and Effort: Known for his relentless pursuit, Downs consistently brings energy and effort on every play.
Weaknesses:
Pass Rush Technique: While he has a solid bull rush, Downs lacks a diverse set of pass-rushing moves, limiting his effectiveness against skilled offensive linemen.
Physical Measurements: His shorter arm length can be a disadvantage when trying to disengage from blockers, especially against longer offensive tackles.
Positional Fit: As a 'tweener', he doesn't fit the prototypical mold for either a 4-3 defensive end or a 3-4 outside linebacker, which may affect his draft stock.
NFL Comparison: Anthony Nelson
Projected Draft Round: 6th Round – 7th Round
Antwaun Powell-Ryland – Virginia Tech Hokies
2024 Season Stats:
Total Tackles: 43 (29 solo, 14 assisted)
Tackles for Loss (TFL): 19.0
Sacks: 16.0
Strengths:
Elite Pass-Rushing Production: Powell-Ryland's 16 sacks and 19 tackles for loss in 2024 rank among the top in the nation, showcasing his ability to consistently disrupt opposing offenses.
Advanced Technique: He employs a diverse array of pass-rushing moves, including spin, rip, and swim techniques, allowing him to win against various offensive linemen.
Weaknesses:
Run Defense: While effective as a pass rusher, he needs improvement in run defense, particularly in maintaining gap discipline and shedding blocks.
NFL Comparison: Yannick Ngakoue
Projected Draft Round: 4th Round – 5th Round
Johnny Walker Jr. – Missouri Tigers
2024 Season Stats:
Total Tackles: 44 (21 solo, 23 assisted)
Tackles for Loss (TFL): 12.5
Sacks: 9.5
Strengths:
Explosive Edge Presence: Walker Jr. showcased his pass-rushing prowess with 9.5 sacks in 2024, including a streak of six consecutive games with at least one sack.
High Motor and Consistency: Known for his relentless effort, he consistently pressured quarterbacks, leading the nation in pressures over a three-week span.
Weaknesses:
Run Defense: While effective against the pass, he needs to improve his consistency in setting the edge and defending against the run.
NFL Comparison: Shaquil Barrett
Projected Draft Round: 5th Round – 6th Round
Ahmed Hassanein – Boise State Broncos
2024 Season Stats:
Total Tackles: 48 (28 solo, 20 assisted)
Tackles for Loss (TFL): 15.5
Sacks: 9.5
Strengths:
Explosive First Step: Hassanein consistently beats offensive tackles off the snap, allowing him to disrupt plays early.
Powerful Bull Rush: He effectively converts speed to power, collapsing pockets and pressuring quarterbacks.
High Motor and Effort: Known for his relentless pursuit, he consistently makes hustle plays, even downfield.
Weaknesses:
Pass Rush Arsenal: Currently relies heavily on his bull rush; developing a more diverse set of moves will enhance his effectiveness.
Tackling Technique: Inconsistencies in wrapping up can lead to missed tackles in open space.
NFL Comparison: Emmanuel Ogbah
Projected Draft Round: 4th Round – 5th Round
Tyler Batty – BYU Cougars
2024 Season Stats:
Total Tackles: 59 (33 solo, 26 assisted)
Tackles for Loss (TFL): 7.0
Sacks: 1.5
Strengths:
Versatility: Batty has experience playing in multiple defensive fronts, aligning as an edge rusher in both four-down and three-down lineman sets.
Physical Attributes: Standing at 6'5" and weighing 275 pounds, he possesses the prototypical size for an NFL defensive end.
Run Defense: Batty demonstrates the ability to set a firm edge and effectively stack and shed blockers, contributing to his reliability against the run.
Weaknesses:
Pass Rush Production: With only 1.5 sacks in the 2024 season, Batty's pass-rushing output was limited, indicating a need for development in this area.
Consistency: There are instances where he pops up out of his stance too frequently, which can lead to him being overwhelmed by powerful offensive tackles
NFL Comparison: Carl Nassib
Projected Draft Round: 6th Round – 7th Round
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