The 2025 NFL Draft is still a long way away, but there are already a number of players who are generating buzz as potential top picks. One of the most intriguing prospects in the draft is defensive lineman Shemar Stewart. Stewart is a 6’5″, 290-pound defensive tackle who has been a force on the field since his freshman year of high school. He is a dominant pass rusher with a quick first step and a powerful bull rush. Stewart also has the strength and size to be a disruptive force in the running game.
Stewart is not the only defensive lineman who is expected to be a top pick in the 2025 draft. Other players who could be in the mix include Walter Nolen, David Bailey, and Dani Dennis-Sutton. Nolen is a 6’4″, 325-pound defensive tackle who is considered to be one of the best prospects in the country. He is a strong and athletic player who can disrupt both the passing and running game. Bailey is a 6’5″, 270-pound defensive end who is known for his speed and athleticism. He is a dangerous pass rusher who can also drop into coverage. Dennis-Sutton is a 6’3″, 285-pound defensive tackle who is a versatile player who can play anywhere on the defensive line. He is a strong and physical player who can create havoc in the backfield.
The 2025 NFL Draft is still a long way away, but these are just a few of the defensive linemen who could be in the mix to be top picks. These players are all talented and have the potential to be stars in the NFL. It will be interesting to see how they develop over the next few years and who ultimately ends up being the top pick in the draft.
Future Stalwarts: Emerging Defensive Linemen to Watch for 2025 Draft
No. 1: Kelvin Banks, OT, Texas
Kelvin Banks is a 6’5″, 300-pound offensive tackle from Carrollton, Texas, who is widely regarded as the top prospect at his position for the 2025 NFL Draft. Banks is an athletic freak with exceptional footwork, agility, and strength. He is a dominant run blocker who uses his size and power to create massive holes for his running backs. In pass protection, Banks is equally impressive. He has a long reach and quick hands, which make it difficult for defenders to get around him. Banks has been a starter for Texas since his true freshman season, and he has already earned All-American honors. He is a consensus top-10 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, and he has the potential to be a Pro Bowl caliber player in the NFL.
No. 2: Shemar Stewart, DL, Texas
Shemar Stewart is a 6’5″, 300-pound defensive tackle from Dallas, Texas, who is one of the most talented interior linemen in the 2025 NFL Draft class. Stewart is a powerful force on the defensive line, with exceptional strength and quickness. He is a disruptive presence who can create havoc in the backfield with his pass-rushing ability. Stewart is also a solid run stopper, who can plug up the middle and make it difficult for opposing running backs to gain yards. Stewart has been a starter for Texas since his true freshman season, and he has already earned All-American honors. He is a consensus top-15 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, and he has the potential to be a dominant force in the NFL.
No. 3: Sonny Styles, DL, Ohio State
Sonny Styles is a 6’4″, 275-pound defensive lineman from Pickerington, Ohio, who is one of the most versatile players in the 2025 NFL Draft class. Styles can play anywhere along the defensive line, and he excels as both a pass rusher and run stopper. He is a quick and agile player who has a knack for getting into the backfield and making plays. Styles has been a starter for Ohio State since his true freshman season, and he has already earned All-American honors. He is a consensus top-20 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, and he has the potential to be a Pro Bowl caliber player in the NFL.
| Rank | Player | Position | School |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Kelvin Banks | OT | Texas |
| 2 | Shemar Stewart | DL | Texas |
| 3 | Sonny Styles | DL | Ohio State |
Athletic Monsters Disrupting the Trenches
Rising stars in the defensive line arena are making waves in the 2025 draft class. These young athletes possess remarkable physical attributes that enable them to dominate play.
Size and Strength
Towering over opponents with their imposing frames, these linemen are true behemoths. Standing at an average height of 6’5″ and weighing in at around 300 pounds, they possess the sheer size to manhandle their adversaries at the point of attack. Their incredible strength translates into powerful tackles and an ability to move offensive linemen at will, creating chaos in the trenches.
Speed and Agility
Despite their size, these defensive linemen are surprisingly nimble and possess quick bursts of speed. Their athleticism allows them to beat blockers off the line and pursue ball carriers with ease. Their quick reactions and exceptional coordination help them adapt to changing situations on the field, making them a constant threat to opposing quarterbacks and running backs.
Natural Instincts
Beyond their physical prowess, these young stars also exhibit exceptional instincts for the game. Their ability to read and anticipate offenses allows them to disrupt plays before they even develop. They possess a knack for shedding blocks, timing their tackles, and generating turnovers. Their instincts and football IQ make them invaluable assets to any defense.
| Player | Height | Weight |
|---|---|---|
| Max Baker | 6’5″ | 320 lbs |
| Slade Upham | 6’6″ | 305 lbs |
| Jason Matthews | 6’4″ | 295 lbs |
3. Isaiah Alexander, Defensive Tackle, Alabama Crimson Tide
Standing at an imposing 6’3″ and weighing 295 pounds, Isaiah Alexander is a true force to be reckoned with on the defensive line. Hailing from the hallowed halls of Alabama Crimson Tide, Alexander possesses an exceptional combination of size, speed, and power that sets him apart as a top prospect. With a lightning-fast first step, he effortlessly explodes off the line of scrimmage, penetrating gaps with astonishing ease. Alexander’s brute strength allows him to overwhelm opposing linemen, consistently disrupting plays in the backfield. He excels in both run defense and pass rush, demonstrating a knack for generating pressure and forcing turnovers.
Alexander’s impressive physical attributes are complemented by his unmatched athleticism. His agility and quickness allow him to change direction in an instant, tracking down elusive running backs with ease. Moreover, his superior anticipation and football IQ enable him to read opposing schemes and react swiftly, making him a nightmare for offensive coordinators. As he continues to hone his skills and develop his technique under the tutelage of Alabama’s renowned coaching staff, Alexander has the potential to become one of the most dominant defensive tackles in the NFL.
Below is a table summarizing Alexander’s key statistics and accolades:
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Tackles | 61 |
| Tackles for Loss | 14 |
| Sacks | 7 |
| Interceptions | 1 |
Pioneering Pass Rushers: Elite Sack Artists Dominating Pocket Presence
Within the upcoming 2025 draft, several defensive linemen stand poised to make a profound impact at the collegiate and professional levels. These players possess exceptional pass-rushing abilities, wreaking havoc on opposing quarterbacks and disrupting offensive game plans.
4. Myles Murphy, EDGE – Clemson
Myles Murphy, a towering defensive end hailing from Clemson University, has emerged as one of the most formidable pass rushers in the 2025 draft class. Standing at an imposing 6’5″ and weighing in at 275 pounds, Murphy combines his physical attributes with an uncanny athleticism and a relentless motor. His explosive first step allows him to get off the line quickly, while his long arms and powerful frame enable him to overpower opposing tackles. Murphy’s versatility is another key asset, as he can line up in multiple positions along the defensive line, providing nightmares for offensive coordinators.
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Season |
GP |
Sacks |
TFL |
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| 2023 | 15 | 10.5 | 22.0 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2024 | 14 | 12.0 | 25.0
Dynamic Disruptors: Multi-Skilled Defensive Linemen Causing HavocAthletic Freaks: Linebackers in DisguiseThese defensive linemen possess exceptional athleticism, enabling them to move with feline agility and cover ground with remarkable speed. Their hybrid skills allow them to drop into coverage with ease, disrupt passing lanes, and make game-changing plays as pass rushers. These players embody the modern-day “positionless” defensive player, wreaking havoc on offenses with their versatility. Powerhouses: Unstoppable Forces of NatureDominating the trenches, these linemen are veritable behemoths who use their brute strength to overpower opponents. Their relentless pursuit of quarterbacks and running backs creates chaos in the backfield, consistently disrupting offensive rhythm. They are the embodiment of traditional interior defensive linemen, anchoring the defense against any attempted assault. Pass-Rushing Specialists: Elite HuntersThese specialists excel at generating pressure on the quarterback. Their speed, technique, and relentless pursuit make them a nightmare for opposing offensive lines. They possess an uncanny ability to read tendencies, anticipate moves, and find the quickest path to the quarterback, creating havoc and often forcing turnovers. Gap Stuffers: Unsung Heroes of the TrenchesOften overlooked but crucial to defensive success, gap stuffers are the unsung heroes of the trenches. They possess a combination of size, strength, and instincts, enabling them to clog running lanes and prevent opposing backs from gaining ground. Their presence frees up other defenders to make tackles and create turnovers. Versatile Game-Changers: Hybrid Defensive LinemenThe modern game demands defensive linemen who can do it all. These hybrid players possess a rare combination of size, athleticism, and technique. They can line up at multiple positions along the defensive line and disrupt offenses in various ways. Their versatility makes them a nightmare for opposing coordinators, as they can adapt to any scheme and cause constant problems.
6. Josh Conerly Jr. (Oregon)Epitomizing the “new breed” of defensive linemen, Josh Conerly Jr. is a 6’5″, 274-pound powerhouse who has dominated both high school and college grids. Hailing from Seattle, Washington, Conerly Jr. established himself as an elite prospect at Lincoln High School, where he earned consensus All-State honors and was named the Washington Defensive MVP. Entering the collegiate ranks, Conerly Jr. has wasted no time making an impact at the University of Oregon. As a true freshman, he started in all 14 games and led the team in tackles for loss and sacks. His exceptional technique and physicality have drawn comparisons to NFL All-Pro Aaron Donald. Conerly Jr. possesses an uncanny ability to disrupt offenses. His explosive first step, combined with his massive frame, makes him an impenetrable presence on the line. He consistently commands double teams, freeing up his teammates to make plays. Additionally, his exceptional footwork and lateral agility allow him to create havoc in the backfield and sack the quarterback with ease. With his exceptional talent and unwavering work ethic, Josh Conerly Jr. is poised to become a dominant force in college football and a coveted prospect in the 2025 NFL Draft.
Unstoppable Forces: Under-the-Radar Defensive Linemen Poised for Breakout SeasonsThe 2025 NFL Draft is shaping up to be one of the most exciting draft classes in recent memory, with a plethora of elite talent across all positions. While the top prospects at the skill positions and on the defensive backfield have received plenty of attention, there are a number of under-the-radar defensive linemen who are primed for breakout seasons. Jaleel Skinner, DT, MiamiSkinner is a 6’5″, 300-pound monster who has the potential to be a dominant force in the trenches. He is incredibly strong and athletic, and he has a knack for making big plays. In 2022, Skinner recorded 35 tackles, 5.5 tackles for loss, and 3 sacks. He is expected to be a major contributor for the Hurricanes in 2023, and he could be one of the top defensive tackles in the country by the end of the season. Shemar Stewart, DT, TexasStewart is another massive defensive tackle who is expected to have a big season in 2023. He is 6’3″, 315 pounds, and he has a relentless motor. Stewart is a disruptive force in the middle of the line, and he is always around the football. In 2022, Stewart recorded 28 tackles, 6 tackles for loss, and 3.5 sacks. He is expected to be a major leader for the Longhorns in 2023, and he could be one of the best defensive tackles in the country. Domani Jackson, DE, Southern CalJackson is a 5-star recruit who is considered to be one of the best pass rushers in the country. He is 6’3″, 245 pounds, and he has incredible speed and athleticism. Jackson is a nightmare for offensive tackles, and he is always looking to make a big play. In 2022, Jackson recorded 39 tackles, 10.5 tackles for loss, and 6 sacks. He is expected to be a major contributor for the Trojans in 2023, and he could be one of the top pass rushers in the country. Barion Brown, DE, KentuckyBrown is a 6’4″, 245-pound defensive end who is known for his strength and athleticism. He is a powerful pass rusher who can also drop back into coverage. In 2022, Brown recorded 32 tackles, 7 tackles for loss, and 5 sacks. He is expected to be a major contributor for the Wildcats in 2023, and he could be one of the top pass rushers in the country. Shemar Stewart, DT, TexasStewart is another massive defensive tackle who is expected to have a big season in 2023. He is 6’3″, 315 pounds, and he has a relentless motor. Stewart is a disruptive force in the middle of the line, and he is always around the football. In 2022, Stewart recorded 28 tackles, 6 tackles for loss, and 3.5 sacks. He is expected to be a major leader for the Longhorns in 2023, and he could be one of the best defensive tackles in the country. Domani Jackson, DE, Southern CalJackson is a 5-star recruit who is considered to be one of the best pass rushers in the country. He is 6’3″, 245 pounds, and he has incredible speed and athleticism. Jackson is a nightmare for offensive tackles, and he is always looking to make a big play. In 2022, Jackson recorded 39 tackles, 10.5 tackles for loss, and 6 sacks. He is expected to be a major contributor for the Trojans in 2023, and he could be one of the top pass rushers in the country. Barion Brown, DE, KentuckyBrown is a 6’4″, 245-pound defensive end who is known for his strength and athleticism. He is a powerful pass rusher who can also drop back into coverage. In 2022, Brown recorded 32 tackles, 7 tackles for loss, and 5 sacks. He is expected to be a major contributor for the Wildcats in 2023, and he could be one of the top pass rushers in the country.
Football Scholars: Intelligent Playmakers Reading Opposing Offenses Like a BookRecognizing FormationsDefensive linemen study opposing formations to determine the play’s type (run, pass, screen). They observe the number of receivers, tight ends, and running backs on the field, as well as their alignment and spacing. Predicting Play CallsBased on formation recognition, linemen use their knowledge of tendencies to predict the most likely play call. They identify patterns in the opponent’s play selection based on previous plays, field position, and down and distance. Adjusting on the FlyLinemen adapt to changing situations during the game. They quickly adjust their techniques and responsibilities based on the offense’s formation, personnel, and play call. They must be able to react rapidly and anticipate the next move. Reading KeysDefensive linemen rely on “keys” to make their reads. These keys are specific indicators of the offense’s intentions, such as the quarterback’s stance, the movement of the offensive line, or the release of a certain receiver. Anticipating SnapsSmart linemen learn to anticipate the snap of the ball by observing the quarterback’s cadence. They study the quarterback’s tendencies and patterns to gain an edge in the snap count. Communicating with TeammatesLine communication is crucial. Defensive linemen share information about their observations and predictions with teammates. They adjust their assignments and responsibilities based on this collective knowledge. Utilizing Film StudyOff-field film study provides defensive linemen with invaluable information about opposing offenses. They study game footage to identify patterns, tendencies, and potential vulnerabilities that they can exploit. Situational AwarenessTop defensive linemen possess a high level of situational awareness. They understand the game situation, such as the score, time remaining, and field position, and make their decisions accordingly. They adjust their techniques and responsibilities based on the circumstances to maximize their effectiveness. All-Around Athletes: Versatile Defenders Thriving in Various PositionsThe future of defensive linemen lies in versatility. These players are no longer confined to a single position. Instead, they are thriving in various roles, showcasing their athleticism and adaptability. Powerhouse Performers: Anchors in the TrenchesThese dominant forces disrupt opposing offenses with their brute strength and ability to clog up the middle. Edge Rushers: Swift and Relentless Pass PursuersWith lightning-fast speed and relentless pursuit, these athletes terrorize quarterbacks, applying pressure and forcing turnovers. Multi-Dimensional Threats: Dynamic PlaymakersThese versatile defenders possess a unique blend of skills, excelling in both pass rushing and run defense. They have the agility to penetrate the backfield and the strength to hold their ground against opposing linemen. The Complete Package: Exceptional AthletesThese exceptional athletes combine strength, speed, and agility to dominate on the field. They are quick off the line, have excellent tackling form, and possess the stamina to play multiple downs without compromising their performance. Number 9: The Versatile SuperstarIn the realm of versatile defenders, number 9 stands out as a shining star. With an exceptional combination of size, strength, and athleticism, this player has the potential to revolutionize the defensive line position. Standing tall at 6’5″ and weighing in at 285 pounds, this physical specimen possesses raw power and the agility of a much smaller athlete. His quick first step and relentless pursuit of the ball carrier make him a force to be reckoned with in the backfield. But what truly sets this defender apart is his versatility. He is equally adept at clogging up the middle as a traditional defensive tackle or rushing the passer from the outside as an edge rusher. His ability to switch between roles seamlessly makes him a nightmare for opposing offenses.
Players to Watch: Defensive Line Prospects on the RiseThe 2025 NFL Draft is brimming with talented defensive linemen who have the potential to dominate the gridiron. These young prospects possess exceptional athleticism, relentless pursuit, and an unyielding determination to succeed. Their performances on the field have already caught the attention of scouts and analysts, and many project them to have breakout seasons in the upcoming year. Eligible Sophomores: Rising Stars in the MakingThe sophomore class of defensive lineman is particularly strong, with several players demonstrating outstanding potential. These athletes have already made significant contributions to their high school teams and are poised to continue their dominance at the collegiate level. With their impressive size, speed, and technique, they are expected to make an immediate impact on the field and challenge for starting roles. Top 10 Defensive Linemen to WatchHere is a closer look at the top 10 defensive linemen to watch in the 2025 draft:
These players possess the physical tools, athleticism, and football IQ to excel at the highest level. As they continue to develop their skills and gain experience on the field, they are destined to become impact players in the NFL. Top Defensive Lineman 2025 Draft ProspectsThe 2025 NFL Draft is still a few years away, but there are already a number of highly-touted defensive linemen who are expected to be available. These players have shown exceptional skills and athleticism at the high school and college levels, and they are all expected to make an impact in the NFL. Here is a look at some of the top defensive linemen who are expected to be available in the 2025 NFL Draft:
These are just a few of the top defensive linemen who are expected to be available in the 2025 NFL Draft. These players have all shown exceptional skills and athleticism, and they are all expected to make an impact in the NFL. People Also AskWho is the best defensive lineman in the 2025 draft?Walter Nolen is considered to be the best defensive lineman in the 2025 draft. He is a 6-foot-4, 325-pound defensive tackle who is known for his size, strength, and athleticism. Who is the best pass rusher in the 2025 draft?Domani Jackson is considered to be the best pass rusher in the 2025 draft. He is a 6-foot-2, 250-pound defensive end who is known for his quickness, agility, and ability to get to the quarterback. Who is the best run stopper in the 2025 draft?Shemar Stewart is considered to be the best run stopper in the 2025 draft. He is a 6-foot-3, 290-pound defensive tackle who is known for his strength, size, and ability to occupy blockers and stop the run. |
