The 2025 NFL Draft defensive end class is loaded with talent, headlined by elite prospects like Abdul Carter and JT Tuimoloau, along with several intriguing sleepers and high-risk players.
This defensive end class is widely regarded as one of the deepest position groups, with five defensive ends earning a consensus first-round grade, according to NFL Mock Draft Database. However, my evaluation differs slightly, as only three of these players receive a first-round grade on my board. That being said, there is still plenty of talent in this year’s class.
Leading the group is Abdul Carter, who is not only the top defensive end but also the highest-rated player overall on my board. He has a strong chance of being the first overall pick. Beyond the first round, there are several intriguing prospects, including Ohio State’s JT Tuimoloau and Virginia Tech’s Antwaun Powell-Ryland.
It is important to note that my evaluations are based on a 4-3 defensive scheme, meaning my definition of a defensive end applies to that system specifically.
Scouting the 2025 NFL Draft defensive end class
Top Prospect: Abdul Carter, Penn State
Abdul Carter isn’t just the best defensive end in the draft—he’s the best overall player in the class. His elite athleticism, explosiveness, and well-rounded skill set make him a complete defensive end. Over three dominant seasons at Penn State, he recorded 23 sacks, showcasing his rare blend of speed and power. Despite being slightly undersized, he plays with impressive strength against the run. His quickness and physicality helped him lead the nation with 23.5 tackles for loss. Carter is a truly elite prospect with legitimate All-Pro potential.
Abdul Carter among Power Four edge defenders in 2024:
— PFF (@PFF) February 24, 2025
- 91.4 PFF grade (1st)
- 15 TFLs (1st)
- The most valuable EDGE, per PFF WAA pic.twitter.com/Eih152K7jy
Player I Would Stand on the Table For: JT Tuimoloau, Ohio State
Ohio State’s JT Tuimoloau is a defensive end who will likely be a Day Two pick despite carrying a first-round grade on my board. His high grade comes from his combination of strength, hand usage, and football IQ. As a pass rusher, he possesses impressive power, highlighted by a dominant bull rush that helped him rack up 12.5 sacks this season. His strength also makes him a force against the run, earning him an impressive 87.3 PFF run defense grade. In addition, he consistently sheds blocks with well-developed hand technique and showcases a variety of pass-rush moves. His football IQ further sets him apart, as he plays with great discipline against the run and excels at diagnosing screen passes.
Breakout Player: Kyle Kennard, South Carolina
Kyle Kennard made the most of his transfer to South Carolina, significantly improving his stock after three seasons at Georgia Tech. He recorded 12.5 sacks at Georgia Tech but took his game to another level with the Gamecocks, leading the SEC with 11.5 sacks and 15.5 tackles for loss in a single season. His pass-rushing production will likely earn him an early Day 3 selection in the 2025 NFL Draft.
Biggest Risk: James Pearce Jr., Tennessee
James Pearce Jr. has immense upside but comes with serious concerns. He has an elite first step and accumulated 17.5 sacks over the past two seasons. However, his game lacks balance—his run defense is a liability, and his lack of power could limit his effectiveness at the next level. Moreover, character concerns have emerged, with an AFC personnel director suggesting he may be off some teams’ draft boards entirely. Despite these red flags, his potential as a pass rusher could lead to a mid-to-late first-round selection.
Sleeper: Antwaun Powell-Ryland, Virginia Tech
Antwaun Powell-Ryland carries a consensus fourth-round grade, but I rank him as a second-round talent due to his elite production and underrated traits. Over the last two seasons, he recorded 25.5 sacks which led all FBS players and 33.5 tackles for loss. His explosive first step, often overlooked by evaluators, has been the key to his success. Additionally, his relentless motor contributes to numerous coverage sacks, proving his ability to impact plays beyond initial pressure.
Potential Bust: Shemar Stewart, Texas A&M
Shemar Stewart possesses the athletic profile of a top-10 pick but lacks the production to justify that status. His elite testing numbers inlcuidng a 4.59-second 40-yard dash and a 40-inch vertical will boost his draft stock, but his on-field performance tells a different story. With just 4.5 sacks over three seasons, his inconsistencies stem from a lack of effort, poor hand technique, and an underwhelming burst off the snap. He carries a second-round grade on my board, and any team selecting him in the top ten could regret it.
Overrated Prospect: Jack Sawyer, Ohio State
While I’m high on JT Tuimoloau, his teammate Jack Sawyer is significantly overrated. Though some project him as a late first-round pick, I have a fifth-round grade on him. He plays with intensity and is solid against the run, but his average athleticism, lack of flexibility, and limited explosiveness hinder his pass-rushing upside. Without elite speed or get-off, he struggles to win around the edge consistently. I see him as a quality backup, making him a Day 3 prospect on my board.