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Interior defensive linemen are increasingly crucial in today's NFL, where their capacity to apply pressure from the inside is just as vital as the contributions of edge rushers. This pressure can collapse the pocket, disrupt the quarterback's flow, and impede the running game. The recent surge in lucrative contracts for top interior defensive linemen underscores their escalating significance and the premium placed on elite talent in this role.
The Growing Importance and Compensation of Interior Defensive Linemen
The rising significance of interior defensive linemen in the NFL is reflected in the substantial increase in their compensation. This trend is driven by their pivotal role in both pass rush and run defense, rendering them indispensable assets on the field. Over the past decade, the value of these players has surged, as demonstrated by the substantial contracts granted to top performers.
From 2014 to 2023, the average cap hit for the highest-paid interior defensive linemen increased from around $11.7 million to $17.8 million, marking a 52% rise. This growth closely mirrors the 56% escalation in the NFL's salary cap during the same period, highlighting the escalating financial commitment to this position.
In the 2024 offseason alone, we witnessed groundbreaking deals that further emphasize this trend:
Chris Jones inked a deal exceeding $150 million, establishing him as the highest-paid defensive tackle in NFL history.
Christian Wilkins secured a four-year, $110 million contract, positioning him among the top earners at his position.
Derrick Brown received a four-year, $96 million extension, showcasing his value to the Carolina Panthers.
These contracts are not isolated incidents but part of a broader trend where teams are willing to pay premium prices for elite talent on the defensive line. This readiness to invest is also evident in the fact that 11 interior defensive linemen now earn an average of $21 million or more per year, matching the number of edge rushers who command similar salaries.
15 Defensive Tackle Prospects To Watch In 2024
The upcoming 2025 NFL Draft is expected to feature numerous skilled and adaptable interior defenders. We have assessed 15 players with different levels of projected NFL potential, ranging from top-tier prospects to those needing further development. The 2024 college football season will offer ample opportunities for evaluation in a position that is becoming increasingly crucial in the NFL.
Deone Walker, Kentucky
Ht: 6'6"
Wt: 348 lbs
Total Pressures: 45
Total Sacks: 7.5
Summary Analysis: Deone Walker stands out as a defensive tackle prospect with an extraordinary mix of size, strength, and agility. Standing at 6'6" and weighing 348 lbs, Walker topped all defensive tackles in Division I by recording 45 quarterback pressures in 2024, demonstrating his impactful performance in disrupting plays in the opposing team's backfield. His knack for creating pressure, along with 7.5 sacks, establishes him as a prime contender for an early pick in the upcoming 2025 NFL Draft. With a combination of exceptional physical attributes and on-field productivity, Walker has the potential to be a game-changing player at the professional level.
Aeneas Peebles, Virginia Tech (Formerly Duke)
Ht: 6'1"
Wt: 286 lbs
Total Pressures: 33
Total Sacks: 5
Summary Analysis: Aeneas Peebles brings a dynamic pass-rushing presence from the interior for Duke. At 6'1" and 286 lbs, Peebles has a quick first step and excellent hand usage, allowing him to disrupt opposing offenses consistently. In 2024, he recorded 33 pressures and 5 sacks, demonstrating his ability to penetrate the backfield. Peebles' agility and technique make him a valuable prospect for the 2025 NFL Draft, particularly as a three-technique in a 4-3 scheme. Peebles transferred from Duke to Virginia Tech this past offseason.
Howard Cross III, Notre Dame
Ht: 6'1"
Wt: 284 lbs
Total Pressures: 30
Total Sacks: 2
Summary Analysis:
Howard Cross III is an experienced and skilled defensive tackle at Notre Dame. Despite his height of 6'1" and weight of 284 lbs being slightly below average, Cross makes up for it with his agility and leverage. In the 2024 season, he recorded 30 pressures and 2 sacks, demonstrating his proficiency in both pass rushing and run defense. Cross's strong work ethic and steady performance position him as a dependable choice for teams seeking a versatile interior lineman in the upcoming 2025 NFL Draft.
Bear Alexander, USC
Ht: 6'3"
Wt: 305 lbs
Total Pressures: 28
Total Sacks: 1.5
Summary Analysis: Bear Alexander is a versatile defensive tackle for USC, known for his strength and power at the point of attack. At 6'3" and 305 lbs, Alexander has been effective in both run defense and as a pass rusher. In 2024, he recorded 28 pressures and 1.5 sacks, highlighting his potential. Alexander's physical tools and production make him an intriguing prospect for the 2025 NFL Draft, especially for teams looking for a stout interior defender.
Mason Graham, Michigan
Ht: 6'3"
Wt: 318 lbs
Total Pressures: 25
Total Sacks: 3
Summary Analysis: Mason Graham from Michigan possesses both size and athleticism, making him a formidable presence on the defensive line. At 6'3" and 318 lbs, Graham recorded 25 pressures and 3 sacks in 2024, showcasing his knack for penetrating the offensive line and disrupting plays in the backfield. His speed and power are evident, and he is a matchup nightmare in one-on-one situations. He has the versatility to line up all over the defensive line. Graham is considered a strong candidate to be the first player drafted in the 2025 NFL Draft, as he can excel in various positions across the defensive front.
Rylie Mills, Notre Dame
Ht: 6'5"
Wt: 295 lbs
Total Pressures: 25
Total Sacks: 2.5
Summary Analysis: Rylie Mills stands out with his impressive frame and versatility along the defensive line. At 6'5" and 295 lbs, Mills can effectively play both inside and on the edge. In 2024, he notched 25 pressures and 2.5 sacks, highlighting his ability to disrupt both the run and pass. Mills' combination of length and strength allows him to control the line of scrimmage, making him a valuable asset for any NFL team looking for a flexible defensive lineman.
Tonka Hemingway, South Carolina
Ht: 6'3"
Wt: 295 lbs
Total Pressures: 21
Total Sacks: 1.5
Summary Analysis: Tonka Hemingway is a solid interior defender for South Carolina, known for his stout play against the run. At 6'3" and 295 lbs, Hemingway brings a blend of power and agility to the field. In 2024, he recorded 21 pressures and 1.5 sacks, showing his ability to affect the game in multiple ways. Hemingway's strength and technique make him an appealing NFL Draft prospect in the 2025 NFL Draft.
T.J. Sanders, South Carolina
Ht: 6'4"
Wt: 290 lbs
Total Pressures: 21
Total Sacks: 4.5
Summary Analysis: T.J. Sanders is an athletic and powerful defensive lineman for South Carolina. At 6'4" and 290 lbs, Sanders has shown the ability to both rush the passer and defend the run effectively. In 2024, he posted 21 pressures and 4.5 sacks, showcasing his versatility. Sanders' combination of size, strength, and athleticism makes him a promising prospect for the 2025 NFL Draft, with the potential to develop into a standout interior lineman.
Tyleik Williams, Ohio State
Ht: 6'3"
Wt: 320 lbs
Total Pressures: 20
Total Sacks: 3
Summary Analysis: Tyleik Williams is a powerful defensive tackle from Ohio State, known for his ability to collapse the pocket. At 6'3" and 320 lbs, Williams utilizes his size and strength to dominate in the trenches. In 2024, he posted 20 pressures and 3 sacks, showcasing his potential as a disruptive force. Williams' ability to play both the run and pass effectively makes him an intriguing prospect for the 2025 NFL Draft, with a skill set that could translate well at the next level.
Kenneth Grant, Michigan
Ht: 6'3"
Wt: 339 lbs
Total Pressures: 17
Total Sacks: 3.5
Summary Analysis: Kenneth Grant of Michigan is a formidable presence on the defensive line, offering a unique blend of size and agility. Standing at 6'3" and 339 lbs, Grant has the power to control the line of scrimmage. In 2024, he accumulated 17 pressures and 3.5 sacks, demonstrating his potential as a disruptive interior defender. Grant's ability to both anchor against the run and penetrate as a pass-rusher makes him a valuable prospect for the 2025 NFL Draft.
Dontay Corleone, Cincinnati
Ht: 6'1"
Wt: 320 lbs
Total Pressures: 14
Total Sacks: 3
Summary Analysis: Dontay Corleone is a powerful nose tackle from Cincinnati, known for his stout play and ability to control the point of attack. At 6'1" and 320 lbs, Corleone excels in holding his ground against double teams and creating disruption in the backfield. In 2024, he recorded 14 pressures and 3 sacks, showcasing his effectiveness in both the run and pass game. Corleone's physicality and run-stopping prowess make him a key prospect to watch in the 2025 NFL Draft.
Yahya Black, Iowa
Ht: 6'5"
Wt: 306 lbs
Total Pressures: 14
Total Sacks: 3.5
Summary Analysis: Yahya Black brings size and versatility to Iowa's defensive front. At 6'5" and 306 lbs, Black has the strength to play various positions along the line. In 2024, he recorded 14 pressures and 3.5 sacks, showcasing his ability to hold the point of attack and disrupt plays. Black's combination of power and technique makes him a potential asset in the 2025 NFL Draft, especially for teams looking for a versatile defensive tackle.
Alfred Collins, Texas
Ht: 6'5"
Wt: 320 lbs
Total Pressures: 14
Total Sacks: 2
Summary Analysis: Alfred Collins, a former five-star recruit, has shown flashes of his potential at Texas. Standing at 6'5" and weighing 320 lbs, Collins has the physical tools to dominate at the next level. In 2024, he recorded 14 pressures and 2 sacks, demonstrating his ability to disrupt the backfield. Collins' development will be key to unlocking his full potential, making him an intriguing prospect for the 2025 NFL Draft.
Joshua Farmer, Florida State
Ht: 6'3"
Wt: 311 lbs
Total Pressures: 12
Total Sacks: 4.5
Summary Analysis: Joshua Farmer has developed into a key player for Florida State, showcasing a combination of strength and agility. At 6'3" and 311 lbs, Farmer's growth and development under coach Mike Norvell have been impressive. In 2024, he posted 12 pressures and 4.5 sacks, demonstrating his ability to disrupt opposing offenses. Farmer's physical attributes and continuous improvement make him an intriguing prospect for the 2025 NFL Draft, particularly as a versatile interior lineman.
Walter Nolen, Ole Miss
Ht: 6'4"
Wt: 290 lbs
Total Pressures:
Total Sacks: 4
Summary Analysis: Walter Nolen, a former five-star recruit, has been a key contributor on the defensive line for Ole Miss. At 6'4" and 290 lbs, Nolen has the size and athleticism to impact both the run and pass game. In 2024, he recorded 4 sacks and numerous pressures, showcasing his disruptive abilities. Nolen's combination of strength and quickness makes him a high-upside prospect for the 2025 NFL Draft, with the potential to develop into a dominant interior defender.