Talented Pass Rushers to Watch in the 2025 NFL Draft
The upcoming 2025 NFL Draft presents a wealth of talent, particularly among defensive edge players. With six of the top 30 prospects listed as edge defenders, a focus on those who have showcased impressive college production but linger outside the top rankings is essential. Let's shine a light on these potential gems who could become valuable assets for NFL teams.
🔥 Josaiah Stewart: A Potential Steal
Josaiah Stewart, despite his 6-foot, 248-pound stature, has demonstrated extraordinary skill as a pass-rusher. His phenomenal performance culminated in a remarkable 93.7 PFF pass-rush grade against true pass sets this past season, ranking him as one of the very best in the nation. While scouts express concerns about his size, Stewart's playmaking ability is undeniable.
Stewart first made waves as a true freshman at Coastal Carolina, amassing a staggering 15 sacks and 41 total pressures, which paved his path onto the PFF All-True Freshman team. His 91.9 PFF pass-rush grade against true pass sets placed him fourth nationally, highlighting his explosive entry into college football.
In a notable game against USC in 2024, Stewart showcased his disruptive ability with two sacks, five QB hits, and a remarkable 93.6 pass-rush grade. His speed and power make him a dual threat; he can execute an outside speed rush or twist inside to baffle offensive linemen. With a win percentage of 41.2% against true pass sets, Stewart has similarly impressive metrics as Chase Young and Nick Bosa, positioning him as a prospect worth watching closely in the draft.
💪 David Walker: Powerhouse Performer
David Walker, standing at 6 feet and 267 pounds, brings a different approach than Stewart. While also a pass-rusher, Walker's strength allows him to leverage his shorter stature effectively. His physicality enables him to establish leverage against taller blockers, driving them back into the pocket.
Throughout his college career at Central Arkansas, Walker recorded an impressive haul of 37 sacks, 17 QB hits, and 97 hurries over three seasons. His PFF pass-rushing grades were consistently elite, scoring 94.0 in 2024, which placed him second in the 2025 NFL draft class behind Stewart. Walker's performance at the Senior Bowl further demonstrated his prowess; in one-on-one drills, he registered six dominant wins out of eight attempts, further amplifying his stock among potential draftees.
While Walker may not be likely to go in the first round, his track record suggests he could evolve into a dependable pass-rushing force in the NFL.
🚀 Bradyn Swinson: The Underrated Prospect
Bradyn Swinson, measuring 6-foot-4 and 250 pounds, is another intriguing name in the upcoming draft. Despite facing heavy competition within this year’s deep edge class, Swinson's production catapults him onto the radar of NFL scouts. His exploits in 2024 included nine sacks, eight QB hits, and an impressive tally of 43 hurries across 313 pass-rushing snaps.
Transitioning from Oregon to LSU for his senior season, Swinson displayed remarkable versatility as a stand-up edge rusher. His combination of quickness and long reach allows him to win battles against offensive linemen. With a 91.7 PFF pass-rush grade against true pass sets, Swinson is positioned among the elite in his class, ranking in the upper echelons of multiple important metrics.
Swinson had the opportunity to participate in the Senior Bowl, though he chose to sit it out, a decision expected to inspire an intense commitment to strength training at the combine. If he can gain some muscle mass and build on his impressive senior year, he has the potential to surpass expectations in the NFL.
📈 The Importance of Production Over Size
It's worthwhile to note that the common factor among Stewart, Walker, and Swinson is their production. While NFL teams often prioritize physical attributes, the performance rendered on the field may ultimately prove more significant. Uncertainties about height and weight can cause talented players to drop down draft boards, as seen in the case of past success stories like Maxx Crosby.
The path chosen by these college athletes reminds us that talent can come in various forms, and sometimes, smaller or differently-built players can offer equally if not more devastating impacts on the field.
Conclusion: Hidden Gems Await
As we inch closer to the draft, the spotlight should remain on these intriguing prospects who embody the potential to change the game from the edges. Josaiah Stewart, David Walker, and Bradyn Swinson may not conform to the traditional mold of an NFL edge rusher, but their production and skills speak volumes. In a draft class saturated with talent, expecting the unexpected could yield the best outcomes for teams willing to look beyond the initial draft rankings.
🔍 Drafting Forward
Fans and analysts alike should keep an eye on these players as their stories progress from college to the professional ranks. A keen understanding of their capabilities may lead to exciting outcomes once they take the field in the NFL, possibly reshaping perceptions regarding size, speed, and skill on the edge. The 2025 NFL Draft may well be a starting point for uncovering the next generation of pass-rushing stars.