The excitement of the NFL Draft Combine kicked off with a focus on the big men in the trenches. Known for being pivotal in determining a team’s success, a strong defensive line can be the key to winning championships. Just look at the Philadelphia Eagles, who showcased a formidable lineup of defensive linemen on their way to raising the Lombardi Trophy this past season. As we preview the 2025 NFL Draft, this year’s Combine highlighted some exceptional talent among defensive linemen and linebackers.
During the first day of workouts at the NFL Combine, several players made notable impressions, even as some top prospects like Abdul Carter, Jalon Walker, and Mason Graham opted not to participate. The defensive line group appears to be one of the most talented and athletic cohorts seen in years, providing teams with a plethora of options for the upcoming draft.
Toledo's Darius Alexander continued to build on his strong postseason momentum, showcasing impressive speed with a 4.95-second 40-yard dash and a remarkable 1.73-second 10-yard split. His Relative Athletic Score (RAS) of 9.22 positions him as a likely second-round pick, reinforcing his status as a promising defensive tackle prospect.
Another player who shone brightly at the combine was Indiana's CJ West. The senior displayed excellent agility and hip movement throughout the drills, leading many to believe he could be a valuable gap-shooting 1-technique defensive tackle. His unofficial RAS score of 9.16 further solidifies his draft stock.
Nebraska's Ty Robinson was another intriguing prospect, achieving an impressive RAS of 9.91, which ranks him among the top 20 defensive tackles historically. His performance during the drills showcased his potential as an athletic force in the trenches.
Ohio State's Tyliek Williams showed promising skills in the positional drills, impressing scouts with his bend and footwork. While primarily a run defender, his ability to improve his pass rush could make him a coveted pick for teams looking for a solid nose tackle.
Texas A&M's Shemar Stewart stole the spotlight as he embarked on the path to possibly becoming a top-10 pick. His explosive movements have placed him firmly on the draft radar, and he’s now widely regarded as one of the most fascinating prospects in this class.
On the other hand, Tennessee’s James Pearce Jr. had a mixed day. While his speed was impressive, there were concerns regarding his vertical jump. However, his overall performance in drills suggests he could still be a strong contributor at the next level.
At the linebacker position, Washington’s Carson Bruener showcased smooth movements and efficiency, while UCLA's Kain Medrano turned heads with a stunning 4.46-second 40-yard dash and impressive vertical jump results. His athleticism may solidify his standing among prospective linebackers in the upcoming draft.
South Carolina's Demetrius Knight Jr. also caught attention with his explosive tackling ability, running a 4.58-second 40, and showcasing the fastest GPS time among linebackers. His aggressive playing style makes him an appealing option for teams in need of a hard-hitting linebacker.
Oklahoma's Danny Stutsman impressed with a 4.52-second 40-yard dash, demonstrating his potential as a blitzer and off-block player. His development in space will be critical as he looks to secure a spot in the NFL.
The NFL Draft Combine continues to provide valuable insights into the prospects for the 2025 NFL Draft. As teams evaluate talent, the performances of these defensive linemen and linebackers will undoubtedly influence their strategies moving forward. Stay tuned for more updates as we delve deeper into the combine and its implications for the upcoming draft.
