It looks like yearly a brand new class of edge rushers enters the NFL draft with the potential to outmatch the final.
Final yr’s class introduced abilities like Jared Verse and Chop Robinson, however the 2025 group exceeds its predecessors in top-end expertise and depth.
For groups looking for beginning defensive ends or exterior rush assist, the highest 5 edge rushers within the 2025 NFL Draft are primed to make an influence.
Abdul Carter, Penn State
No sizzling takes right here. Generally the consensus is correct for a purpose, and Carter brings a mixture of quick-twitch explosion and highly effective upper- and lower-body power that can not be matched by the opposite members of the category.
His refined pass-rush skill from the skin linebacker place has drawn comparisons to fellow Penn State product Micah Parsons.
Superb NFL match: A Browns pairing of Myles Garrett and Carter may elevate Cleveland’s protection to the subsequent degree. Garrett’s true energy and Carter’s explosiveness may overwhelm AFC North offensive strains if the Browns play their playing cards proper.
James Pearce Jr., Tennessee
Tennessee defensive lineman James Pearce Jr. (27) sacks UTEP quarterback JP Pickles (19) throughout a university soccer recreation between Tennessee and UTEP at Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024. PHOTO USA TODAY SPORTS IMAGES So far as athletes go, nobody on this class matches Pearce’s pure pace. Headlining a Tennessee defensive position stuffed with NFL expertise, Pearce’s standout numbers on the mix confirmed the athleticism that was ever-present in his faculty tape.
His weight is a little bit of a priority, coming in on the low 240s, however a scheme that depends on pace rushers will permit him to feast within the backfield.
Superb NFL match: That is the kind of influence edge the Bengals are coveting. In principle, he could be the right pairing with Trey Hendrickson, however Hendrickson’s future is unsure. Pearce has the potential to be Cincinnati’s subsequent marquee defender.
Nic Scourton, Texas A&M
Nov 25, 2023; West Lafayette, Indiana, USA; Purdue Boilermakers linebacker Nic Scourton (5) reacts after bringing down Indiana Hoosiers quarterback Brendan Sorsby (15) throughout the second half at Ross-Ade Stadium. credit: Robert Goddin-USA TODAY Sports activities Scourton’s uncooked energy ought to promote groups on him, with among the most forceful upper- and lower-body power of any edge rusher within the draft. Most of the prime prospects this yr are primarily pace rushers, however for pure power and cruel play, look no additional than Scourton.
His pocket-pushing skill additionally interprets to high quality run-stopping, the place he holds his personal within the hole and might even play some three-technique defensive deal with in a pinch.
Superb NFL match: Scourton looks like a pure match with the Lions, a crew that values cumbersome, well-rounded defensive linemen. Head coach Dan Campbell will probably be attempting to find energy on this yr’s class to pair with Aidan Hutchinson, and Scourton may very well be the man.
Jalon Walker, Georgia
Some groups view Walker as a linebacker, however his pass-rush prowess and skill to set the sting will doubtless decide his draft place. Defensive finish or 3-4 exterior linebacker appears to be his doubtless future.
His array of pass-rush strikes and relentless pursuit of the quarterback will earn him followers amongst defensive coordinators throughout the league. Nevertheless, his scheme-specific nature might power him off some groups’ boards.
Superb NFL match: Walker may excel with the Seahawks in a task much like the one Uchenna Nwosu at the moment performs. Seattle has some younger depth on the place, however Walker is a tier above and will present speedy enchancment to the hybrid linebacker corps.
Mykel Williams, Georgia
Aug 31, 2024; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Georgia Bulldogs defensive lineman Mykel Williams (13) tackles Clemson Tigers quarterback Cade Klubnik (2) throughout the second half at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Necessary Credit score: Dale Zanine-Imagn Pictures Williams is the kind of edge rusher you’ll construct in a lab, with a powerful body, weight, and muscle. He additionally boasts an SEC pedigree that has been battle-tested in opposition to NFL-caliber expertise.
There’s some damage historical past to contemplate, which has restricted his skill to refine his approach as an edge rusher. Nevertheless, as a developmental prospect, it doesn’t get significantly better than Williams.
Superb NFL match: The Cowboys may goal Williams in the event that they need to enhance on protection. He suits Jerry Jones’ mildew of prototype our bodies with strong athleticism and will develop alongside Parsons right into a constant excessive single-digit sack participant.