This past season, Penn State lost their top two edge rushers to the NFL draft. Chop Robinson went 21st overall to the Miami Dolphins. Adisa Isaac went in the 3rd round to the Baltimore Ravens. You would think the Nittany Lions would have a drop-off at that position. That’s not the case, as they may be even stronger at edge rusher this season.
Abdul Carter is widely regarded as a first-round prospect for the 2025 NFL draft. The 6-foot-3, 252-pound junior is currently #21 on the consensus draft big board, but I have seen him as high as #4. Dani Dennis-Sutton has a larger frame at 6-foot-5, 266 pounds. The junior is #71 on the
consensus draft board but has been as high as #42.
Penn State’s Talented Linebacker
Carter is making the transition from an off-ball linebacker to an edge rusher. It makes sense when you watch Carter play. He is extremely athletic and explosive. His long arms help him get off blocks. When asked to blitz, he was productive last year and finished second on the team in sacks.
Because he has played middle linebacker, he should be comfortable dropping in coverage at the next level. He does miss too many tackles and will need to get stronger to play edge in the NFL. But his speed and athleticism stand out when you watch him play. He has all the tools to be a monster off the edge, and I would not be surprised if he goes in the top 10.
Run-Setting Edge
Unlike Carter, Dennis-Sutton is already a terrific run defender on the edge. He can bull-rush offensive tackles, and his strength is evident. He has a non-stop motor and should run into some coverage sacks. He must add pass-rush moves to start at the next level and currently relies on his strength.
Dennis-Sutton should be able to move inside on passing downs and use his effort to win against guards. His ceiling is an early down run-stopping defensive end who can play defensive tackle on 3rd downs. If he works out well at the combine, he should be a day 2 pick.
Final Thoughts On NFL Draft
Penn State will have their first test this season when they host Illinois. The Illini have OT JC Davis who is a highly regarded
draft prospect himself. Davis is one of the best technically sound pass protectors in the country. He might fit better at guard at the next level because he sometimes struggles with speed rushers. The Carter vs Davis matchup should be fun to watch and draft evaluators will be watching it closely. #9 Penn State hosts #19 Illinois this Saturday at 7:30 Eastern on NBC.
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