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The 2025 NFL Draft edge rusher class strikes a balance between proven production and high-upside projection, making it one of the most intriguing position groups in this draft cycle. Penn State’s Abdul Carter leads the way as a versatile, dynamic pass rusher in the mold of Micah Parsons, showing flashes of elite traits while still refining his transition to a full-time edge role. Right behind him, Marshall’s Mike Green was the nation’s most productive sack artist, using his speed-to-power conversion and refined hand usage to dominate. His Senior Bowl performance erased any doubts about his ability to win against top-tier competition.
Beyond the top two, this class features a mix of athletic freaks and developmental pass rushers with sky-high potential. Texas A&M’s Shemar Stewart stands out as the most physically imposing of the group at 6-6, 290 lbs, with movement skills reminiscent of Rashan Gary and Travon Walker. However, his production has yet to match his raw ability, making him a projection-based prospect. Similarly, Georgia’s Mykel Williams possesses the all-around physical tools to challenge for EDGE1 status down the road, but he must refine his technique and consistency to reach his full potential.
With a blend of instant-impact playmakers and long-term developmental prospects, the 2025 edge rusher class offers something for every NFL team—whether they need a polished pass rusher ready to contribute on Day 1 or a high-upside athlete capable of becoming a game-wrecking force in the future.
2025 NFL Draft: Edge Rusher Rankings
Elite Tier - Top 5-10 Picks (1st Round)
A rare, high-impact prospect with the potential to be an instant NFL star.
1) Abdul Carter | Penn State | Ht: 6'3" | Wt: 250 lbs
Player Comparison: Micah Parsons
Analysis: Carter is a dynamic and explosive edge rusher with the versatility to play as an off-ball linebacker or a full-time pass rusher. His elite closing speed, bend, and ability to play in space make him a nightmare for opposing offenses. While still refining his hand usage, Carter’s raw athleticism and pass-rushing instincts give him All-Pro potential.
Near Elite Tier - 1st Round Projection
Prospects in this tier possess elite physical tools and production but may need refinement or have slight limitations preventing them from reaching the “Elite” category.
2) Mike Green | Marshall | Ht: 6'4" | Wt: 250 lbs
Player Comparison: Haason Reddick
Analysis: Green is a twitchy, high-motor pass rusher with elite burst and refined hand usage. He wins with speed-to-power and a deep arsenal of pass-rush moves, showing the ability to bend and flatten to the quarterback. His frame is still developing, but his production and Senior Bowl dominance prove he is a three-down edge rusher with star potential.
3) Shemar Stewart | Texas A&M | Ht: 6'6" | Wt: 290 lbs
Player Comparison: Travon Walker
Analysis: Stewart is a freak athlete with an NFL-ready frame and elite strength. His ability to play inside or outside makes him a scheme-versatile weapon. While he lacks polished hand usage and a refined pass-rush plan, his speed-to-power conversion and raw explosiveness give him massive upside as a potential top-15 pick.
High-End Starter Potential - 2nd/3rd Round Projection
Players in this tier have the tools to become high-level starters early in their NFL careers.
4) Mykel Williams | Georgia | Ht: 6'5" | Wt: 265 lbs
Player Comparison: Not Available
Analysis: Williams is an alignment-versatile edge rusher with the physical tools to develop into a premier NFL player. He has played as a stand-up rusher and along the interior, showcasing a powerful bull rush and violent hands. His best NFL fit is as a 4-3 defensive end or a 3-4 outside linebacker in an attacking front.
5) James Pearce Jr. | Tennessee | Ht: 6'5" | Wt: 245 lbs
Player Comparison: Von Miller
Analysis: Pearce is a long, explosive pass rusher with elite first-step quickness and flexibility to threaten the edge. He wins with speed and counter moves, though he needs to improve his play strength to handle NFL-caliber tackles. His versatility allows him to rush from various alignments, making him a fit for multiple schemes.
6) Donovan Ezeiruaku | Boston College | Ht: 6'2" | Wt: 247 lbs
Player Comparison: Harold Landry
Analysis: Ezeiruaku is a bendy, fluid pass rusher with advanced hand-fighting skills. He wins with finesse and counter moves but lacks elite burst and play strength against bigger offensive tackles. He’s best suited as a 3-4 outside linebacker in a blitz-heavy scheme but can develop into a three-down player with added strength.
7) Jack Sawyer | Ohio State | Ht: 6'4" | Wt: 270 lbs
Player Comparison: Not Available
Analysis: Sawyer brings a high-energy play style with a well-rounded skill set. His explosive first step and bull rush make him effective in pressuring quarterbacks. While he lacks elite bend, his motor and ability to set the edge make him an asset in multiple defensive schemes.
8) Josaiah Stewart | Michigan | Ht: 6'1" | Wt: 235 lbs
Player Comparison: Azeez Ojulari
Analysis: Stewart is an undersized but highly explosive pass rusher with elite burst and strong hands. His first-step quickness and edge-trimming ability make him dangerous, though he must improve his counter moves and run defense. He’s best suited as a designated pass rusher (DPR) or a 3-4 OLB in an aggressive scheme.
Mid-Level Starter Potential - 4th/5th Round Projection
These players project as solid rotational contributors with the potential to develop into quality starters.
9) Nic Scourton | Texas A&M | Ht: 6'4" | Wt: 280 lbs
Player Comparison: Not Available
Analysis: Scourton is a powerful edge defender with the size and strength to play multiple roles. His active hands and natural power allow him to set the edge and collapse pockets. He projects best in a 4-3 or as a 3-4 DE who can rotate inside on passing downs.
10) Landon Jackson | Arkansas | Ht: 6'7" | Wt: 281 lbs
Player Comparison: Carl Nassib
Analysis: Jackson is a long, physical edge rusher with great run-stopping ability. His size, motor, and strength make him an ideal base DE in a 4-3 or a 3-4 DE who can slide inside. While he lacks elite burst, his power and length give him starter upside in the right scheme.