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The 2024 NFL Draft's edge rusher class is deep and talented, showcasing versatility with various play styles and skill sets. Dallas Turner from Alabama leads the pack, with Chop Robinson showcasing elite ceiling potential and Jared Verse and Laiatu Latu bringing ultra-productivity and talent to the table.
An elite edge rusher in today's NFL and college football acts as a significant force multiplier for a defense. In an era dominated by the passing game, possessing a player who can consistently achieve pressure off the edge is invaluable, enhancing the overall effectiveness of the defense and especially benefiting secondary coverage.
The top 5 NFL edge defenders in 2023 in terms of total pressure on the QB according to PFF are as follows:
Nick Bosa - 16 sacks, 122 pressures
Aidan Hutchinson - 14 sacks, 121 pressures
Micah Parsons - 16 sacks, 106 pressures
Maxx Crosby - 15 sacks, 94 pressures
Myles Garrett - 15 sacks, 89 pressures
According to Spotrac, the average annual combined salary for the top 5 edge rushers in terms of total pressures from 2023 is $19M.
Nick Bosa - $34M
Aidan Hutchinson - $9M (rookie contract)
Micah Parsons - $4M (rookie contract)
Maxx Crosby - $24M
Myles Garrett - $25M
This analysis merges multiple data sources to offer the most comprehensive overview possible, aiming to illustrate how NFL teams might deploy each draft prospect. By integrating Football Scout 365's NFL Draft player grades with the college alignment usage of each prospect, we can begin to forecast their NFL trajectories, helping to visualize how they project at the professional level.
How We Scout The Edge Rusher Position
Scouting edge rushers in the NFL requires evaluating a player's size, athleticism, technique, and versatility.
Below is a list of critical components we use to grade the EDGE position during the NFL Draft process. Every EDGE defender receives a grade on a scale of 1-10 for each of the below components during the scouting process. Once each player component is graded, we attach a final grade to indicate where the player stands before entering the NFL Draft, and then we attach a ceiling grade based on future potential.
Here are some key factors to consider when scouting an edge rusher:
Size and Length: An edge rusher needs size and length to create separation from offensive linemen and disrupt the quarterback's throwing motion. This includes their ability to generate power at the point of attack, maintain leverage, and finish sacks.
Speed and Agility: An edge rusher must be fast and agile enough to beat offensive linemen and get to the quarterback quickly. This includes their ability to change direction quickly, accelerate off the snap, and bend around the edge.
Pass Rushing Ability: An edge rusher needs to be able to get to the quarterback and disrupt the passing game. This includes their ability to generate pressure, penetrate the offensive line, and use various pass-rushing techniques such as the bull rush, swim move, and spin move.
Run Stopping Ability: An edge rusher must stop the run and limit the yardage gained by ball carriers. This includes their ability to maintain gap control, set the edge, and pursue ball carriers.
Versatility: An edge rusher needs to be versatile enough to play on both sides of the defensive line, drop back into coverage, and execute different pass-rushing techniques. This includes their ability to adjust to different offensive schemes, work effectively with different defensive linemen, and contribute to special teams.
Football IQ: An edge rusher's football intelligence is essential to make quick decisions and adjustments on the field. This includes their ability to recognize offensive formations, diagnose plays, and communicate with their teammates.
Durability: An edge rusher's durability is important, as they will be taking a lot of hits on the field. This includes their ability to stay healthy and recover quickly from injuries.
When scouting an edge rusher, it's important to evaluate all of these factors and the player's overall performance on the field. It's also important to consider the team's specific needs and whether the edge rusher's skills and attributes match the team's defensive system and style of play. Additionally, it's important to consider the edge rusher's penalties and mental mistakes, as these can be a liability for the defense.
Ranking The Top Graded Edge Rushers in The 2024 NFL Draft
1). Dallas Turner - Alabama Crimson Tide
Height/Weight: 6'4", 242 lbs
Ceiling Grade: Near Elite Level Potential
NFL Draft Projection: Top 15 Overall
Performance Grades:
Pass Rush Grade: A+
Run Defense Grade: B
Snaps by Alignment (Total for All Years):
1 Tech (A Gap): 0
3 Tech (B Gap): 10
4 Tech (Over Tackle): 22
Edge (Outside Tackle): 1514
Off Ball: 118
NFL Scheme Fit Summary:
Projected NFL Position: EDGE
Dallas Turner's exceptional first-step explosiveness and versatility make him a perfect fit for an EDGE role in 3-4 defenses or as an athletic outside linebacker in modern NFL schemes. His ability to generate significant quarterback pressures and effectively contribute to run defense highlights his potential as a near-elite talent.
2). Chop Robinson - Penn State Nittany Lions
Height/Weight: 6'3", 250 lbs
Ceiling Grade: Near Elite Level Potential
NFL Draft Projection: 1st Round, picks 20-32
Performance Grades:
Pass Rush Grade: A+
Run Defense Grade: B
Snaps by Alignment (Total for All Years):
1 Tech (A Gap): 0
3 Tech (B Gap): 5
4 Tech (Over Tackle): 21
Edge (Outside Tackle): 928
Off Ball: 67
NFL Scheme Fit Summary:
Projected NFL Position: EDGE
Chop Robinson's blend of physical prowess and high motor equips him well for a stand-up EDGE role within 3-4 schemes, showcasing his ability to impact the game through his versatile playmaking capabilities. His outstanding pass rush grade and solid run defense underscore his high ceiling in the NFL.
3). Jared Verse - Florida State Seminoles
Height/Weight: 6'4", 260 lbs
Ceiling Grade: Near Elite Level Potential
NFL Draft Projection: Mid to late 1st round
Performance Grades:
Pass Rush Grade: A+
Run Defense Grade: C+
Snaps by Alignment (Total for All Years):
1 Tech (A Gap): 0
3 Tech (B Gap): 23
4 Tech (Over Tackle): 65
Edge (Outside Tackle): 1413
Off Ball: 7
NFL Scheme Fit Summary:
Projected NFL Position: EDGE
Jared Verse's multifaceted skill set as an edge rusher allows for flexibility across defensive schemes, making him a valuable asset in both 4-3 and 3-4 alignments. His ability to excel in pass rush situations and potential for further development in run defense position him as a dynamic prospect with near-elite potential.
4). Laiatu Latu - UCLA Bruins
Height/Weight: 6'5", 265 lbs
Ceiling Grade: High-End Starter Potential
NFL Draft Projection: Mid to late 1st round
Performance Grades:
Pass Rush Grade: A+
Run Defense Grade: B
Snaps by Alignment (Total for All Years):
1 Tech (A Gap): 0
3 Tech (B Gap): 61
4 Tech (Over Tackle): 73
Edge (Outside Tackle): 862
Off Ball: 33
NFL Scheme Fit Summary:
Projected NFL Position: EDGE
Laiatu Latu's explosive quickness and advanced hand technique make him an impactful edge rusher, particularly in odd front schemes. His performance grades indicate a player with significant pass rush capabilities and solid run defense, fitting well in aggressive defensive setups.
5). Chris Braswell - Alabama Crimson Tide
Height/Weight: 6'3", 255 lbs
Ceiling Grade: High-End Starter Potential
NFL Draft Projection: Late 1st, early to mid-round two
Performance Grades:
Pass Rush Grade: A
Run Defense Grade: C+
Snaps by Alignment (Total for All Years):
1 Tech (A Gap): 0
3 Tech (B Gap): 14
4 Tech (Over Tackle): 80
Edge (Outside Tackle): 878
Off Ball: 41
NFL Scheme Fit Summary:
Projected NFL Position: EDGE
Chris Braswell's dynamic edge rushing ability, marked by explosiveness and agility, positions him as a formidable threat in pass-rush scenarios. His adaptability in both 3-4 and 4-3 schemes enhances his value, making him a versatile and impactful player at the high-end starter level.
6). Darius Robinson - Missouri Tigers
Height/Weight: 6'5", 296 lbs
Ceiling Grade: High-End Starter Potential
NFL Draft Projection: 2nd Round
Performance Grades:
Pass Rush Grade: B+
Run Defense Grade: A
Snaps by Alignment (Total for All Years):
1 Tech (A Gap): 102
3 Tech (B Gap): 596
4 Tech (Over Tackle): 166
Edge (Outside Tackle): 403
Off Ball: 10
NFL Scheme Fit Summary:
Projected NFL Position: Defensive End in 3-4 Scheme
Darius Robinson's strength and technique position him as a key run defender with burgeoning pass-rush capabilities. Ideal as a 5-tech defensive end in 3-4 alignments, his power and ability to disengage make him a versatile asset across defensive fronts, promising high-end starter potential with development in pass rush diversity.
7). Adisa Isaac - Penn State Nittany Lions
Height/Weight: 6'4", 254 lbs
Ceiling Grade: Mid-Level Starter Potential
NFL Draft Projection: 3rd Round
Performance Grades:
Pass Rush Grade: B
Run Defense Grade: A
Snaps by Alignment (Total for All Years):
1 Tech (A Gap): 2
3 Tech (B Gap): 5
4 Tech (Over Tackle): 26
Edge (Outside Tackle): 862
Off Ball: 10
NFL Scheme Fit Summary:
Projected NFL Position: Designated Pass Rusher (DPR)
Adisa Isaac's agility and technique earmark him as a rotational edge rusher poised for disruption. Suited for hybrid defenses, his potential as a designated pass rusher is evident, with growth needed in run defense to expand his every-down utility.
8). Marshawn Kneeland - Western Michigan Broncos
Height/Weight: 6'3", 275 lbs
Ceiling Grade: Mid-Level Starter Potential
NFL Draft Projection: 3rd Round
Performance Grades:
Pass Rush Grade: A-
Run Defense Grade: A
Snaps by Alignment (Total for All Years):
1 Tech (A Gap): 0
3 Tech (B Gap): 8
4 Tech (Over Tackle): 143
Edge (Outside Tackle): 1194
Off Ball: 91
NFL Scheme Fit Summary:
Projected NFL Position: 5-Tech Defensive End
Kneeland's blend of run defense and pass-rush capability, alongside his notable motor, situates him as a 5- or 6-tech in even fronts, bringing physicality and tactical prowess to the line.
9). Bralen Trice - Washington Huskies
Height/Weight: 6'4", 274 lbs
Ceiling Grade: Mid-Level Starter Potential
NFL Draft Projection: 3rd Round
Performance Grades:
Pass Rush Grade: A
Run Defense Grade: B
Snaps by Alignment (Total for All Years):
1 Tech (A Gap): 0
3 Tech (B Gap): 45
4 Tech (Over Tackle): 36
Edge (Outside Tackle): 1616
Off Ball: 33
NFL Scheme Fit Summary:
Projected NFL Position: Defensive End in 4-3 Scheme
Trice's size and explosiveness earmark him as an impactful player in a 4-3 scheme, where his dual ability to rush the passer and support run defense could be fully leveraged.
10). Austin Booker - Kansas Jayhawks
Height/Weight: 6'6", 245 lbs
Ceiling Grade: Low-Level Starter Potential
NFL Draft Projection: 3rd Round
Performance Grades:
Pass Rush Grade: B+
Run Defense Grade: B
Snaps by Alignment (Total for All Years):
1 Tech (A Gap): 0
3 Tech (B Gap): 6
4 Tech (Over Tackle): 23
Edge (Outside Tackle): 473
Off Ball: 3
NFL Scheme Fit Summary:
Projected NFL Position: EDGE
Booker's explosive first step and bend around the edge suggest he's best suited for roles emphasizing pass rush, with development potential in run defense to enhance his every-down value.
11). Jonah Elliss - Utah Utes
Height/Weight: 6'2", 246 lbs
Ceiling Grade: Low-Level Starter Potential
NFL Draft Projection: 3rd Round
Performance Grades:
Pass Rush Grade: A
Run Defense Grade: B
Snaps by Alignment (Total for All Years):
1 Tech (A Gap): 16
3 Tech (B Gap): 78
4 Tech (Over Tackle): 54
Edge (Outside Tackle): 906
Off Ball: 26
NFL Scheme Fit Summary:
Projected NFL Position: Outside Linebacker in Odd Fronts
Elliss demonstrates a nuanced approach to edge rushing, with a blend of power and finesse that makes him a significant threat. His technique and physicality suggest he'll thrive as a standup outside linebacker in odd front schemes, focusing primarily on pass rushing while developing into a more versatile run defender.