As we look ahead to the 2025 NFL Draft, the depth of talent on the defensive line is truly remarkable. Both the defensive tackle and defensive end classes are not only strong at the top but are also packed with prospects throughout the top 100 picks. This year's draft is shaping up to be a showcase for defensive talent! 🎉
With the NFL Scouting Combine taking place this week, Kansas City Chiefs fans have the perfect opportunity to observe some standout defensive linemen. Here are eight players—four defensive ends and four defensive tackles—to keep an eye on during Thursday’s workouts.
Defensive End: Shemar Stewart, Texas A&M
If given the choice to watch just one workout, I'd pick Shemar Stewart without hesitation. After witnessing Travon Walker's incredible Combine performance in 2022, I anticipate that Stewart may exceed those athletic benchmarks! 😲
Standing tall at 6 feet 6 inches and weighing 291 pounds, Stewart possesses imposing size combined with exceptional arm length. Fans are eagerly awaiting his measurements, as he represents one of the most powerful and compact athletes to enter the NFL. 💪
What truly sets Stewart apart is his astonishing athleticism. His explosiveness, first step, and agility are seldom found in players of his stature; he moves with the fluidity of someone much lighter, around 260 pounds. I wouldn't be surprised if his broad and vertical jumps approach record-breaking levels, especially given his weight class.
Despite questions about his future projection, post-Combine chatter is likely to spotlight Stewart as a top-five candidate. 🌟
Defensive End: Jordan Burch, Oregon
Jordan Burch may not have garnered the attention he deserves due to the overall depth of this class, but his skills are impressive. At 6 feet 6 inches and 290 pounds, he's a versatile defensive lineman who displays noteworthy agility. While he might not be the most elusive, his length and explosiveness enable him to win from various positions on the field. Expect some surprises from Burch during the Combine! 🏃♂️💨
Defensive End: Landon Jackson, Arkansas
Landon Jackson intrigues me because my assessment differs significantly from that of many analysts. Some project him for the late first round, yet I remain skeptical. Although he's a long-armed rusher with a solid motor and strength, Jackson’s stiffness could pose challenges in the NFL. 🤔
Considering his limited production as a pass rusher, Jackson must deliver a strong performance to bolster his chances of being selected in the first round. I'm open to being proven wrong; his athletic testing could determine whether he falls within the top 30 picks or lands on Day 2. 🔍
Defensive End: Princely Umanmielen, Ole Miss
In today’s NFL, defensive ends are required to possess speed to keep pace with an increasing number of mobile quarterbacks. A prime example is Nolan Smith from the Philadelphia Eagles. Despite a smaller frame that may limit some aspects of his pass-rushing capability, Smith's impressive speed helps counteract quick quarterbacks effectively.
Princely Umanmielen has the potential to fill a similar role. Anticipate strong performances in speed and jumping drills during the Combine. Like Smith, Umanmielen may be on the leaner side but makes up for it with incredible quickness and agility to navigate around blockers. Ole Miss often utilized him in coverage situations, where he excelled while chasing down plays from behind. I can’t wait to see how he showcases his skills! 🚀
Defensive Tackle: Derrick Harmon, Oregon
After transitioning from Michigan State, Derrick Harmon made a significant impact at Oregon in 2024. As a three-technique defensive tackle, he relies on his speed to penetrate gaps and create havoc in the opposing backfield. His electric first step indicates a promising future, and I’m eager to see his Combine performance! ⚡️
Defensive Tackle: Deone Walker, Kentucky
At 6 feet 7 inches and nearly 350 pounds, Deone Walker is an imposing presence on the field. His workout may profoundly influence draft evaluations. However, what makes him stand out is his surprising speed and agility, allowing him to avoid blocks and disrupt plays. 🪨
While Walker's pad level can be inconsistent, and he sometimes struggles with jump-starting off the ball, there are concerns about his overall motor. Furthermore, evaluators will be probing whether he possesses the necessary athleticism, particularly during the Combine. Since he is only 20 years old, a team savvy in their assessment might unearth a game-changing gem!
Defensive Tackle: Darius Alexander, Toledo
Though my exposure to Darius Alexander's film has been limited, he appears to fit the mold of a three-technique pass rusher. Recently, he's surfaced on some first-round radar, and his performance at the Combine could solidify his position among top picks. 🥇
Nose Tackle: Kenneth Grant, Michigan
Every draft season introduces us to a nose tackle with a standout athletic profile and pass-rushing skills. For 2025, that player is Kenneth Grant. Renowned as an elite run defender, he has shown the capability to control multiple gaps while showcasing impressive pass-rushing moves during his college career.
As an athlete, Grant is quick-footed and possesses the initial burst to outpace many of his smaller peers along the defensive line. Based on my film analysis, he should perform exceptionally well at the Combine, making for an exciting experience! 🎊