Top Pass-Blockers to Watch for in the 2025 NFL Draft 🏈

Estimated Reading Time: 6 minutes

In today’s NFL, where the passing game has taken center stage, the significance of elite offensive linemen cannot be overstated. With this in mind, we’ll explore some standout pass-blockers from last season who are eligible for the 2025 NFL Draft, focusing on their impressive pressure rates and performance stats. These players exemplify what it means to protect the quarterback and facilitate offensive plays. Let's dive in! 🌟

1. Jackson Slater, Sacramento State: 1.1% Pressure Rate

Jackson Slater emerged as a formidable force during his four-year tenure at Sacramento State, mainly playing as a left guard. Though his season came to an unfortunate end in 2024 due to a knee injury, he established himself as one of the nation’s elite pass protectors prior to that setback. Notably, he went an astonishing 25 consecutive games without allowing a sack, showcasing his remarkable skills in pass protection. Throughout his last season, he allowed just three pressures across 379 pass-blocking snaps, an outstanding accomplishment. 🎉

2. Jared Wilson, Georgia: 1.4% Pressure Rate

Jared Wilson began his journey at Georgia in 2021 and gradually earned more playing time over the years. His hard work paid off in 2024 when he secured the starting center position. Throughout the season, he exhibited impressive performance, permitting only five pressures in 511 attempts. Despite his relatively limited experience on the field, Wilson stands out as a top prospect, ranking 111th overall on the big board for centers. His development has definitely captured the attention of scouts. 👏

3. Marcus Wehr, Montana State: 1.4% Pressure Rate

Marcus Wehr's path to success is quite interesting. Originally committed to Montana State as a defensive lineman in 2019, he switched to the offensive line in 2022. Over the past two seasons, he has primarily played as a right tackle before transitioning to right guard. For his entire career, Wehr has been a solid protector, allowing just nine pressures across 762 pass-blocking snaps, with none resulting in a sack. His versatility and performance make him a player to watch in the draft! 🔍

4. Drew Kendall, Boston College: 1.6% Pressure Rate

Drew Kendall has been an integral part of the Boston College offensive line, serving as a three-year starter and playing all 1,308 snaps at center during that time. His 2024 season was particularly noteworthy, as he made significant improvements in his pass-blocking abilities, allowing just five pressures after facing 32 combined in the previous two seasons. Being the son of former NFL guard Pete Kendall, it’s no surprise that he showcases such prowess on the field. Currently, he ranks 280th on the big board, and his skills could translate well to the next level. 🏆

5. Joe Huber, Wisconsin: 1.7% Pressure Rate

Joe Huber's journey has seen him adapt and thrive at different schools. After spending his first two seasons at Cincinnati, he transferred to Wisconsin in 2023. His versatility shines through, as he played multiple positions throughout his college career—right tackle in 2022, left guard in 2023, and then moving to right guard in 2024. Huber had his best performance in 2024, allowing only nine pressures for the season, with just one sack in Week 1 being the only blemish on his record. His dynamic abilities highlight his readiness for the professional stage. 🚀

Honorable Mentions

Luke Kandra, Cincinnati: 1.8% and Willie Lampkin, North Carolina: 1.9%

Both Kandra and Lampkin have impressive pressure rates below 2% in 2024, making them notable contenders in the upcoming draft. Kandra ranks 147th overall, while Lampkin is positioned at 128 on the big board. What stands out is their ability to maintain their performance without allowing a single sack in pass-protection last season. They are certainly players worth keeping an eye on as their careers progress! 📊

With the 2025 NFL Draft approaching, these talented linemen are showcasing the skills and resilience that every team craves. The evolution of offensive strategies in the league highlights the importance of robust offensive line play, and these players exemplify the attributes that contribute to a successful passing attack. As teams look to bolster their rosters, expect to hear more about these rising stars! 🌟