Top 25 Winners and Losers Among Defensive Linemen and……The NFL Draft Combine is one of the most crucial events in the pre-draft process, giving prospects a chance to impress scouts, coaches, and general managers. Every year, certain players see their stock skyrocket thanks to outstanding athletic performances, while others struggle and raise questions about their pro potential. This year’s combine was no different, with several defensive linemen and linebackers making waves—either for the right or wrong reasons.
Winners
1. Dallas Turner, EDGE, Alabama
Turner showcased his elite athleticism with a blistering 40-yard dash and fluid movement in on-field drills. His explosive first step and bend off the edge were on full display, solidifying his status as a top-10 prospect.
2. Chop Robinson, EDGE, Penn State
A freak athlete, Robinson impressed with his agility and lower-body explosion. His quick-twitch movements and change-of-direction skills make him an ideal fit for teams seeking a versatile pass rusher.
3. Byron Murphy II, DT, Texas
Murphy displayed an exceptional blend of power and quickness, excelling in both the bench press and agility drills. His strong hands and ability to disengage from blockers make him a high-upside interior presence.
4. Edgerrin Cooper, LB, Texas A&M
Cooper’s sideline-to-sideline speed and sharp instincts stood out in position drills. His ability to drop into coverage fluidly further cemented his rising stock as a modern linebacker.
5. Jared Verse, EDGE, Florida State
Verse demonstrated a relentless motor and excellent technique, combining power with finesse. His interviews also received positive feedback, showing his leadership potential.
6. Payton Wilson, LB, NC State
Despite concerns about his injury history, Wilson impressed with his speed and agility. His smooth movement in coverage drills boosted his draft outlook significantly.
7. Braden Fiske, DT, Florida State
Fiske’s athletic testing numbers were off the charts for a defensive tackle. His quick get-off and explosiveness put him on the radar for teams needing an interior disruptor.
8. Darius Robinson, DL, Missouri
Robinson showed off his versatility by excelling in multiple drills, proving he can be an asset in both 3-4 and 4-3 defensive schemes.
9. Junior Colson, LB, Michigan
Colson looked fluid in movement drills and displayed excellent footwork. His ability to diagnose plays quickly should appeal to teams seeking a high-IQ linebacker.
10. Kris Jenkins, DL, Michigan
Jenkins’ combination of strength and agility made him one of the biggest winners. His ability to anchor against the run and push the pocket gives him an edge over other interior linemen.
Losers
1. Maason Smith, DT, LSU
Smith struggled with agility drills and lacked the explosiveness expected from a top-tier defensive tackle. Concerns about his lateral movement and consistency grew after a subpar showing.
2. Leonard Taylor III, DT, Miami
Taylor failed to meet expectations in the bench press and speed drills, raising concerns about his overall conditioning and strength.
3. Jalyx Hunt, EDGE, Houston Christian
Hunt’s lack of refined technique was evident during drills. While he has raw athletic traits, his footwork and hand usage need significant improvement.
4. T’Vondre Sweat, DT, Texas
Sweat came into the combine heavier than expected and struggled in agility tests. His endurance and conditioning remain key concerns for scouts.
5. Jack Sawyer, EDGE, Ohio State
Sawyer lacked the burst and flexibility needed to excel as an edge rusher at the next level. His stiffness in drills was evident, lowering his draft stock.
6. Tommy Eichenberg, LB, Ohio State
Eichenberg’s speed was underwhelming, and his coverage skills appeared limited compared to his peers. While he’s a solid run defender, his range is a concern.
7. Gabriel Murphy, EDGE, UCLA
Murphy struggled with explosiveness and lateral quickness. Scouts expected a stronger showing in agility drills, but his performance raised doubts about his pass-rush upside.
8. Cedric Johnson, EDGE, Ole Miss
Johnson’s stiffness in movement drills and lack of elite burst hurt his stock. He needs further refinement to become a more polished edge threat.
9. Jaylan Ford, LB, Texas
Ford’s slower-than-expected 40-yard dash and stiff change-of-direction drills highlighted his athletic limitations. Teams looking for a rangy linebacker may look elsewhere.
10. Justin Eboigbe, DL, Alabama
Eboigbe failed to stand out in key drills and struggled with technique consistency. He may need a strong Pro Day to recover his draft stock.
Final Thoughts
The NFL Combine once again proved to be a defining moment for many prospects. While some defensive linemen and linebackers used the stage to solidify or enhance their draft status, others will need to rely on Pro Days and team interviews to make up for disappointing performances. With the draft approaching, teams will scrutinize these results as they make final evaluations on the best defensive talent available.
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