Ryan Dunleavy discusses the leading defensive linemen in the upcoming draft:
While there was a decline in 2025, the 2024 footage suggests he has potential. Perhaps he was misaligned? There’s a sense that the intensity will increase, leading to greater consistency. Displays explosive qualities and some initial power. Often faces double teams.
2. Kayden McDonald, Ohio State, 6-2, 326
Last season, he managed 9 tackles for loss thanks to his impressive strength. He’s quite the challenge for opposing linemen. However, his ability to rush the passer seems limited, especially when the pocket is mobile. Last year was his first as a starter.
He’s seen action in 43 SEC games, but his influences on pass defense and run-stopping often shine through the stats of his teammates. He has excellent pad levels, a strong grip, and notable range. He can play as a nose tackle or in a three-technique position, bringing passion and energy to the field.
4. Lee Hunter, Texas Tech, 6-3 1/2, 318
He absorbs double teams well, making him a significant presence against the run. With a mix of size, strength, and length, he’s ready to impact teams from day one, though he might struggle as a pass rusher. Strong bull rush showcased at the Senior Bowl, although he’s in need of some conditioning work. His skill set might not fit every defensive scheme.
5. Caleb Banks, Florida State, 6-6, 327
He recently underwent surgery due to a foot injury from the NFL Combine, which means he’ll be out for a while, until at least June. Notably, this injury isn’t related to a previous broken leg that limited his playtime last season. His pass-rushing skills are quite basic, relying more on physicality than on technique.
6. Dominick Orange, Iowa State, 6-2, 322
He’s a solid fit as a 3-4 nose tackle with impressive strength (he can squat 650 pounds). Last season, however, his production dropped as he struggled with missed tackles. His lateral movement is limited and he doesn’t contribute much to pass rushing. Known as “Big Citrus,” he seems to shy away from direct confrontations.
A nose tackle can significantly influence quarterbacks even without getting sacks. He disrupts the pocket while maintaining visibility by extending his arms (he’s recorded 10 pass defenses). I’ve yet to see him get blocked effectively. He seems seasoned beyond his years, but mastering leverage is crucial.
He possesses a remarkable combination of strength, speed, and wingspan. He’s used to winning solely through his physical abilities, which sometimes leads to unrefined techniques being exposed. It’s kind of like freelancing, and it raises the question: will he become the reliable pocket-pusher everyone hopes for in 2024?
9. Tyler Onyedim, Texas A&M, 6-3 1/2, 292
His resilience and work ethic are unquestionable. He excels in various schemes including 3-4 formations. He has a quick first step, allowing him to shoot gaps, although his secondary pass rushing skills need improvement. He shows good awareness against offensive strategies.
10. Zane Durant, Penn State, 6-1, 290
He has made The Athletic’s Freaks of the Year list three times, showcasing an athletic ability that can surprise. However, I did notice moments where he was taken out of plays. Tight and nimble, but he needs to develop a more effective counter move for pass rushing.
Oversleeping in the morning
Gracen Hulton, Oklahoma State, 6-3, 293
Dynamic “tweener” with strong inside pass-rushing skills (8.5 sacks since 2024). He navigates through gaps with agility and quickness. However, he may struggle against more powerful guards, as he needs a specific scheme that capitalizes on his skill set.
fall rapidly
His build resembles that of a supervillain. He has impressively long arms (34 ⁵/₈ inches) that allow him to extend around blockers for 6 career blocked kicks. Footwork and pad level are areas needing attention, while he can make plays from the backside. He also faced some legal troubles, including domestic violence charges.
Named the Southland Conference Defensive Player of the Year, he stood out with two sacks against LSU. His technique and quickness enable him to reach the quarterback swiftly, although he might be undersized to handle run defense on the inside.
