Edge Rush Dominance: Ranking the Top Pass Rushers in the 2025 NFL Draft
The 2024 NFL season saw a record-breaking number of sacks, with defenses showcasing a new era of edge rushing talent. As we look ahead to the 2025 NFL Draft, the anticipation is building around a class of edge rushers poised to make an immediate impact. This year’s draft is loaded with prospects who possess a blend of speed, power, and technique, making it a must-watch for teams seeking to bolster their defensive front.
The Cream of the Crop: Top Tier Edge Prospects
Leading the charge is Penn State’s Abdul Carter, a name that consistently appears at the top of draft boards. Carter’s transition to a full-time edge rusher in 2024 was nothing short of spectacular. His combination of speed, power, and bend is considered elite, and his ability to refine his pass-rushing moves throughout the season has scouts buzzing. With 68 tackles, 23.5 tackles for loss, and 12 sacks in 2024, Carter’s impact is undeniable. His versatility, including experience dropping into coverage, makes him a highly coveted prospect for any defensive scheme.
Close behind is Tennessee’s James Pearce Jr., a dynamic edge rusher known for his twitchiness and explosive first step. Pearce’s ability to quickly get off the ball and react to the snap makes him a nightmare for offensive tackles. His athleticism and speed allow him to chase down plays from the backside, adding another dimension to his game.
Rising Stars and Standout Performances
Marshall’s Mike Green is another name generating significant buzz. Green’s journey from a three-star recruit to a potential first-round pick is a testament to his hard work and talent. After transferring to Marshall, Green’s game took a massive leap, culminating in an NCAA-leading 17 sacks in 2024. His explosive speed off the edge and ability to chase down plays make him a valuable asset. Green’s unconventional but effective spin move has also caught the attention of scouts.
Georgia’s Mykel Williams is a force to be reckoned with. Williams possesses a pro-caliber build with the weight and length that NFL teams covet. His strength and ability to set the edge make him a reliable run defender, while his pass-rushing skills continue to develop.
Texas A&M’s Nic Scourton is a player whose pass-rush moves are well beyond his years. Scourton is known for his spin move, which he has mastered to a high degree. His ability to attack both shoulders of offensive tackles makes him difficult to block.
The Depth of the Class: Other Notable Edge Rushers
The 2025 NFL Draft isn’t just about the top names; it’s also about the depth of talent at the edge rusher position. Players like Arkansas’ Landon Jackson, who is firmly on the day one/two border, have shown the ability to be a disruptive force. Jackson’s size and power make him a strong run defender, and his ability to generate space by bench-pressing offensive linemen is impressive.
Other edge rushers to watch include:
- Shemar Stewart (Texas A&M): A powerful and versatile player.
- J.T. Tuimoloau (Ohio State): A highly-touted prospect with a high ceiling.
- Princely Umanmielen (Ole Miss): A strong and athletic edge rusher.
- Oluwafemi Oladejo (UCLA): A high-energy player who transitioned to the edge in 2024 and impressed at the Senior Bowl.
- Josaiah Stewart (Michigan): A player with a knack for disrupting plays.
The Evolving Role of the Edge Rusher
The modern NFL demands more from edge rushers than just sacks. Teams are increasingly looking for players who can also contribute in coverage. This has led to a rise in the value of edge rushers who can drop into coverage, defend passes, and make plays in space. Players like Stanford’s David Bailey and Central Arkansas’ David Walker are examples of edge rushers who excel in both pass rushing and coverage.
Conclusion: A Draft to Remember
The 2025 NFL Draft is shaping up to be a pivotal one for teams looking to improve their pass rush. With a wealth of talent at the edge rusher position, teams will have the opportunity to add game-changing players to their defenses. From the elite athleticism of Abdul Carter to the refined technique of Nic Scourton, this class has it all.
What are your predictions for the top edge rushers in the 2025 NFL Draft? Share your thoughts in the comments below!