This is a good year to need defensive linemen. While the most depth is out on the edges, the interior defender group has some really great players who could start early in their careers and a few others who could develop into excellent role players in the right defense.

1. Byron Murphy II, Texas

What he does well: Byron Murphy II is one of the more gifted athletes in this entire class. His physical gifts are most evident when he can get upfield as a pass rusher. He has a devastating first step and a fantastic motor to terrorize a passing game. He is a stout, strong player too who was relied on to play nose guard in Texas’ defense despite playing next to 360 pound T’Vondre Sweat. His low, powerful build helps him anchor against the run.

Where he can Improve: It rarely shows up on tape, but Byron Murphy’s size is a legitimate concern for when he gets to the NFL. His short arms and lighter weight will force a learning curve against NFL offensive linemen. He has the athletic tools to compensate, but it might take some time to adjust.

Pro Comparison: Grady Jarrett

2. Jer’Zhan Newton, Illinois

What he does well: Jer’Zhan “Johnny” Newton was a force to be reckoned with at Illinois. He has special quickness off the ball and great technique when fighting through blocks. His pass rush prowess will immediately translate to the NFL.

Where he can Improve: Newton needs to win early in the down or he can be neutralized by stronger offensive linemen. His sub-300 pound weight shows up when forced to fight through double teams or trying to anchor against more physical run games. His quickness and instincts allow him to generate big plays against the run shooting gaps, but rarely was he able to control the line of scrimmage beyond them.

Pro Comparison: Dominique Easley

3. T’Vondre Sweat, Texas

What he does well: T’Vondre Sweat was a breakout player in 2023. It was always clear Sweat was a talented player with his rare 6’4”, 366 pound size and surprising athleticism, but it took until last season for Sweat to put it all together. He can be dominating on all three downs, not just overwhelming linemen with his strength but with his quickness as well. His instincts were refined in 2023, and his play far more consistent on a down to down basis.

Where he can Improve: Being a late bloomer will always draw some questions. It’s also worth wondering how much a 366 pounder can stay on the field in the NFL or if Sweat will need to drop weight. These are big questions, but there is no denying how special Sweat can be if he keeps up the strong play from 2023.

Pro Comparison: Vita Vea

4. Braden Fiske, Florida State

What he does well: Braden Fiske is a sixth year senior with four years of starting experience, three years at Western Michigan, and one at Florida State. He is a tremendous athlete with a great first step, powerful hands, and a hot motor. He does his best work rushing the passer.

Where he can Improve: Fiske will turn 25 during his rookie season. These age dynamics pose a major question: Did Fiske just benefit from being far more physically advanced than his opponents in college? Also, at 6’5” and under 300 pounds, he could be pushed around in the NFL.

Pro Comparison: Lamarr Houston

5. Kris Jenkins, Michigan

What he does well: Kris Jenkins is the best pure run defender in this class. Despite being a bit smaller at 6’3” and 299 pounds, Jenkins has long and strong arms that he uses to control the line of scrimmage. He is a smart, physical player who never gets pushed around and can generate opportunities for his opponents to make big plays against the run. He also tested well at the combine, indicating a high ceiling.

Where he can Improve: Despite his great tested athleticism, Jenkins was not a dynamic pass rusher at Michigan. It has partly to do with his role in the defense, and partly with technique when it comes to disengaging blocks to generate pressure. With the right coaching, Jenkins could be a really special three down defender.

Pro Comparison: Milton Williams

The Rest

6. Ruke Orhorhoro, Clemson
7. Brandon Dorlus, Oregon
8. DeWayne Carter, Duke
9. Leonard Taylor III, Miami
10. Maason Smith, Louisiana State
11. Tyler Davis, Clemson
12. Michael Hall Junior, Ohio State
13. Mekhi Wingo, Louisiana State
14. Khristian Boyd, Northern Iowa
15. McKinnley Jackson, Texas A&M