Keldric Faulk is one of the top defensive ends entering the 2026 NFL Draft. As a powerful, athletic edge rusher, the Auburn star should be high on most NFL teams’ draft board come April.
As an early-down run stopper who can disrupt the quarterback on passing downs, Faulk is a defensive coordinator’s dream and a big-time stud along the defensive line. His scheme versatility and overall intangibles as a tough nose defender who will do what’s necessary to help his team win will spark instant improvement for whichever team drafts him.
Although just 2 sacks in 2025, Faulk did rack up 7 sacks in 2024. With his long arms, high motor and ability to shed blocks, Faulk will remind NFL fans of Calais Campbell. The question is not Faulk’s ability as a defensive end, it’s whether the right team, right defensive coordinator can tap into his potential and unlock within him that same impact Campbell had on the league as a top-notch defender.
Keldric Faulk a classic NFL defensive end
When it comes to edge rushers in this draft, Keldric Faulk isn’t getting a ton of buzz, but he is considered a top 20 prospect on many NFL boards, including ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr.
In his latest 2026 NFL draft big board rankings, Kiper has Faulk at No. 15 and describes him as the perfect defensive end for the 4-3 scheme.
Kiper writes:
“If you could draw up the perfect NFL 4-3 defensive end, it would be Faulk. He's what I call an "LTPer" -- someone who looks the part. He can win with outside and inside moves, and he moves blockers with his super powerful hands. I see good overall instincts on tape too. Faulk makes his presence felt against the run and the pass, and he is scheme versatile.”
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The scheme versatility is what will make Faulk a hot target in the middle of the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft. A three-down defender who can get after the quarterback as well as defend the run, Faulk is a player who should find success at the NFL level as a Day 1 starter.
As a projected top 15 pick, here are 3 NFL fits for Keldric Faulk in the 2026 NFL Draft.
3 NFL teams in position to land Keldric Faulk
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Selecting in the middle of the first round, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are an ideal draft destination for Keldric Faulk. Physical, versatile and athletic, the Auburn defensive end fits the Buccaneers need for a consistent pass-rushing threat off the edge to pair with Yay Diaby. With Haason Reddick not expected back in Tampa, edge rusher is a high need for the Buccaneers. Faulk is a solid selection given where Tampa is selecting. With a high ceiling and strong work ethic, Faulk should be a Day 1 starter for the Buccaneers and help strengthen the defensive side of the ball.
Other first round options for the Buccaneers: T.J. Parker (ED), Avieon Terrell (CB), Romello Height (EDGE)
Dallas Cowboys
The Cowboys will be looking to revamp on the defensive side of the ball. With a few needs defensively, the Cowboys can take care of their top need at edge rusher by selecting Keldric Faulk. After trying Micah Parsons, the Cowboys do have an additional pick in the first round to address other needs, but with Jadeveon Clowney, Dante Fowler Jr., and Sam Williams hitting free agency, Faulk solves a big need as a defensive end who can not only generate pressure, but shut down the run.
Other first round options for the Cowboys: Sonny Styles (LB), David Bailey (EDGE), Caleb Downs (S)
Baltimore Ravens
The Ravens lacked a consistent pass rush for most of the season. They can solve some of that and get younger at the edge rush position with the selection of Faulk. With Kyle Van Noy and Dre’Mont Jones hitting free agency, the Ravens have an opportunity to use a high first-round pick on a player who can get to the quarterback consistently and is versatile enough to play in multiple schemes. With his size, strength and high motor, Faulk would look great in purple and black, especially with the high pressure rate he brings off the edge.
Other first round options for the Ravens: Cashius Howell (ED), Peter Woods (DL), Denzel Boston (WR)