NFL · 2 hours ago

Mel Kiper’s Updated Top 21 EDGE NFL Draft Final Rankings

John Canady

Host · Writer

HM: Ethan Burke, Texas
EDGE Rank: 43

Mel's Big Board: n/a

Ethan Burke's Measurements
- Height: 6'6"
- Weight: 259 lbs.
- Hand: n/a
- Arm: n/a
Ethan Burke posted 40 tackles, three sacks, one pass defense, and one forced fumble in 2025, using his rare length to disrupt passing lanes and edge runs. Burke is a high-upside, projectable athlete who can threaten quarterbacks when he pairs his frame with refined technique.

Ethan Burke's Combine Results
- 40-Yard Dash: n/a
- 10-Yard Split: n/a
- Vertical Jump: n/a
- Broad Jump: n/a
- 3-Cone Drill: n/a
- 20-Yard Shuttle: n/a
- Bench Press: n/a
NFL Draft: Mel Kiper EDGE Rankings
The wait is over—the 2026 NFL Draft in Pittsburgh officially begins tonight, April 23. In a major final recalibration released on April 21, ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr. has overhauled his board, merging his separate Defensive End and Outside Linebacker rankings into one definitive EDGE category. This shift reflects a league-wide demand for versatile disruptors who can terrorize the pocket from any alignment.

Elite Talent at the Peak

The new combined rankings are headlined by a pair of "blue-chip" superstars who have officially cemented themselves as Top 5 overall prospects. Arvell Reese (Ohio State) and David Bailey (Texas Tech)—both formerly classified as OLBs—lead the class, followed by a dense tier of high-impact defensive ends. Rueben Bain Jr. (Miami), Zion Young (Missouri), Akheem Mesidor (Miami), and Keldric Faulk (Auburn) all carry Top 30 grades, providing a deep pool of first-round talent.

The Meteor Rise of Malachi Lawrence

Perhaps the biggest storyline in the home stretch is the ascent of UCF’s Malachi Lawrence. After previously sitting at No. 6 among OLBs, Lawrence has vaulted to the No. 7 EDGE spot, leapfrogging several high-profile names on his way up. With 15 edge defenders currently represented in Kiper’s overall Top 75, tonight's first round and Day 2 on Friday in the Steel City are poised to be dominated by the men who bring the pressure.
1) Arvell Reese, Ohio State
Previous Rank: 1 OLB

Mel's Big Board: 3

Arvell Reese's Combine Measurements
- Height: 6'4"
- Weight: 241 lbs.
- Hand: 9 1/2"
- Arm: 32 1/2"
Arvell Reese emerged as one of the most disruptive defenders in the country for Ohio State, flashing the range and explosiveness that NFL evaluators covet. He piled up 69 total tackles, 6.5 sacks, and two pass defenses in 2025, consistently impacting plays from sideline to sideline. With his blend of athleticism and instincts, Reese has positioned himself firmly in the conversation as a potential early selection in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Arvell Reese's Combine Results
- 40-Yard Dash: 4.46
- 10-Yard Split: 1.58
- Vertical Jump: n/a
- Broad Jump: n/a
- 3-Cone Drill: n/a
- 20-Yard Shuttle: n/a
- Bench Press: n/a
2) David Bailey, Texas Tech
Previous Rank: 2 OLB

Mel's Big Board: 5

David Bailey's Combine Measurements
- Height: 6'4"
- Weight: 251 lbs.
- Hand: 10 1/4"
- Arm: 33 3/4"
David Bailey was a nightmare for opposing quarterbacks last season, anchoring Texas Tech’s pass rush with relentless pressure. His production jumped off the stat sheet with 52 total tackles, 14.5 sacks, three forced fumbles and three pass defenses in 2025. That kind of dominance has scouts viewing Bailey as one of the premier defensive prospects in the entire class.

David Bailey's Combine Results
- 40-Yard Dash: 4.50
- 10-Yard Split: 1.62
- Vertical Jump: 35"
- Broad Jump: 10'9"
- 3-Cone Drill: n/a
- 20-Yard Shuttle: n/a
- Bench Press: n/a
3) Rueben Bain Jr., Miami
Previous Rank: 1 DE

Mel's Big Board: 16

Rueben Bain Jr.'s Combine Measurements
- Height: 6'2"
- Weight: 263 lbs.
- Hand: 9 1/8"
- Arm: 30 7/8"
Rueben Bain Jr. brings a powerful, pro-ready presence off the edge, producing 54 total tackles, 9.5 sacks, one forced fumble, one pass defense, and one interception in 2025. He wins with strength at the point of attack, heavy hands, and the ability to collapse the pocket, projecting as a sturdy three-down defensive end capable of impacting both the run and pass game.

Rueben Bain Jr.'s Combine Results
- 40-Yard Dash: n/a
- 10-Yard Split: n/a
- Vertical Jump: n/a
- Broad Jump: n/a
- 3-Cone Drill: n/a
- 20-Yard Shuttle: n/a
- Bench Press: n/a
4) Zion Young, Missouri
Previous Rank: 2 DE

Mel's Big Board: 22

Zion Young's Combine Measurements
- Height: 6'6"
- Weight: 262 lbs.
- Hand: 9 1/2"
- Arm: 33"
Zion Young emerged as a disruptive presence up front, recording 42 total tackles, 6.5 sacks, two forced fumbles, and two pass defenses in 2025. He combines length with active hands and bursts off the edge, showing the ability to create splash plays while holding up as a steady every-down defender.

Zion Young's Combine Results
- 40-Yard Dash: n/a
- 10-Yard Split: n/a
- Vertical Jump: n/a
- Broad Jump: n/a
- 3-Cone Drill: n/a
- 20-Yard Shuttle: n/a
- Bench Press: n/a
5) Akheem Mesidor, Miami
Previous Rank: 4 DE

Mel's Big Board: 23

Akheem Mesidor's Combine Measurements
- Height: 6'3"
- Weight: 259 lbs.
- Hand: 10"
- Arm: 32 1/8"
Akheem Mesidor delivered one of the more productive seasons in the class, finishing with 63 total tackles, 12.5 sacks, and four forced fumbles. He plays with power and urgency off the edge, consistently collapsing the pocket and finishing plays. However, some evaluators remain hesitant because he is an older prospect than others in the group.

Ahkeem Mesidor's Combine Results
- 40-Yard Dash: n/a
- 10-Yard Split: n/a
- Vertical Jump: n/a
- Broad Jump: n/a
- 3-Cone Drill: n/a
- 20-Yard Shuttle: n/a
- Bench Press: n/a
6) Keldric Faulk, Auburn
Previous Rank: 3 DE

Mel's Big Board: 26

Keldric Faulk's Combine Measurements
- Height: 6'6"
- Weight: 276 lbs.
- Hand: 9 7/8"
- Arm: 34 3/8"
Keldric Faulk offers rare length and size on the edge, totaling 29 tackles, four pass defenses, and two sacks in 2025 after posting seven sacks in 2024. He uses his frame to disrupt passing lanes and set a firm edge against the run, flashing developmental pass-rush upside with the physical tools teams covet at defensive end.

Keldric Faulk's Combine Results
- 40-Yard Dash: n/a
- 10-Yard Split: n/a
- Vertical Jump: 35"
- Broad Jump: 9'9"
- 3-Cone Drill: n/a
- 20-Yard Shuttle: n/a
- Bench Press: n/a
7) Malachi Lawrence, UCF
Previous Rank: 6 OLB

Mel's Big Board: 30

Malachi Lawrence's Combine Measurements
- Height: 6’4"
- Weight: 253 lbs.
- Hand: 9 1/4"
- Arm: 33 5/8"
Malachi Lawrence turned heads at UCF with his disruptive presence and playmaking ability. He tallied 28 total tackles, seven sacks, two forced fumbles and two pass defenses in 2025, routinely finding ways to impact both the run and passing game. Lawrence’s combination of length and burst makes him an intriguing prospect heading into draft season.

Malachi Lawrence's Combine Results
- 40-Yard Dash: 4.52
- 10-Yard Split: 1.59
- Vertical Jump: 40”
- Broad Jump: 10’10”
- 3-Cone Drill: n/a
- 20-Yard Shuttle: n/a
- Bench Press: n/a
8) R Mason Thomas, Oklahoma
Previous Rank: 3 OLB

Mel's Big Board: 36

R Mason Thomas’s Measurements
- Height: 6'2"
- Weight: 241 lbs.
- Hand: 8 7/8"
- Arm: 31 5/8"
R Mason Thomas continues to be a key part of Oklahoma’s defensive front, bringing burst and power off the edge. Even in a rotational role, he made the most of his opportunities with 26 tackles, 6.5 sacks, two forced fumbles and one pass defense during the 2025 campaign. His ability to create pressure in limited snaps has kept him firmly on NFL radars.

R Mason Thomas's Combine Results
- 40-Yard Dash: 5.67
- 10-Yard Split: 1.63
- Vertical Jump: n/a
- Broad Jump: n/a
- 3-Cone Drill: n/a
- 20-Yard Shuttle: n/a
- Bench Press: n/a
9) T.J. Parker, Clemson
Previous Rank: 5 DE

Mel's Big Board: 49

T.J. Parker's Combine Measurements
- Height: 6'4"
- Weight: 263 lbs.
- Hand: 9 1/2"
- Arm: 33 1/8"
T.J. Parker is a powerful edge defender who brings physicality and consistency to Clemson’s defensive front. In 2025, he recorded 37 total tackles, five sacks, and a pass defense, showcasing his ability to disrupt both the run and pass game. Parker uses his strength and leverage well at the point of attack, with the power to set the edge and the burst to pressure quarterbacks, projecting as a well-rounded defensive end at the next level.

T.J. Parker's Combine Results
- 40-Yard Dash: 4.68
- 10-Yard Split: 1.61
- Vertical Jump: 34”
- Broad Jump: 10’0”
- 3-Cone Drill: n/a
- 20-Yard Shuttle: n/a
- Bench Press: n/a
10) Cashius Howell, Texas A&M
Previous Rank: 4 OLB

Mel's Big Board: 51

Cashius Howell's Combine Measurements
- Height: 6'2 1/2"
- Weight: 253 lbs.
- Hand: 9 1/4"
- Arm: 30 1/4"
Cashius Howell delivered a breakout season at Texas A&M, showcasing his ability to affect the game in multiple ways. He recorded 31 total tackles, 11.5 sacks, six pass defenses and a forced fumble in 2025, repeatedly disrupting plays at the line of scrimmage. Howell’s knack for getting into passing lanes and collapsing pockets made him one of the SEC’s most dangerous defenders.

Cashius Howell's Combine Results
- 40-Yard Dash: 4.59
- 10-Yard Split: 1.58
- Vertical Jump: 32.5”
- Broad Jump: 9’7”
- 3-Cone Drill: n/a
- 20-Yard Shuttle: n/a
- Bench Press: n/a
11) Derrick Moore, Michigan
Previous Rank: 5 OLB

Mel's Big Board: 54

Derrick Moore's Combine Measurements
- Height: 6’4"
- Weight: 255 lbs.
- Hand: 9 1/8"
- Arm: 33 3/8"
Derrick Moore powered Michigan’s defensive front with a relentless motor and physical edge. He finished the 2025 season with 30 total tackles, 10 sacks, three pass defenses and two forced fumbles, regularly overwhelming blockers with strength and leverage. Moore’s ability to consistently generate pressure has helped solidify his status among the nation’s top defenders.

Derrick Moore's Combine Results
- 40-Yard Dash: n/a
- 10-Yard Split: n/a
- Vertical Jump: n/a
- Broad Jump: n/a
- 3-Cone Drill: n/a
- 20-Yard Shuttle: n/a
- Bench Press: n/a
12) Jaishawn Barham, Michigan
Previous Rank: 7 OLB

Mel's Big Board: 56

Jaishawn Barham's Combine Measurements
- Height: 6’3 1/2"
- Weight: 240 lbs.
- Hand: 10 1/4"
- Arm: 32 3/8"
Jaishawn Barham brought energy and explosiveness to Michigan’s defense, thriving as a versatile playmaker. His 2025 stat line featured 32 total tackles, four sacks, four pass defenses and a forced fumble, highlighting his ability to impact multiple phases of the game. Barham’s range and aggression make him an appealing option for teams looking for a modern linebacker.

Jaishawn Barham's Combine Results
- 40-Yard Dash: 4.64
- 10-Yard Split: 1.61
- Vertical Jump: 33”
- Broad Jump: 10’3”
- 3-Cone Drill: n/a
- 20-Yard Shuttle: n/a
- Bench Press: n/a
13) Gabe Jacas, Illinois
Previous Rank: 6 DE

Mel's Big Board: 61

Gabe Jacas's Combine Measurements
- Height: 6'4"
- Weight: 260 lbs.
- Hand: 10"
- Arm: 33"
Gabe Jacas is a relentless pass rusher who made a major impact for Illinois in 2025, finishing with 43 tackles, 11 sacks, three forced fumbles, and a pass defense. His blend of size, power, and motor allows him to consistently pressure the backfield and create game-changing plays. Jacas shows a knack for attacking blockers with force and closing on the quarterback, giving him the tools to develop into a disruptive edge presence.

Gabe Jacas's Combine Results
- 40-Yard Dash: n/a
- 10-Yard Split: n/a
- Vertical Jump: n/a
- Broad Jump: n/a
- 3-Cone Drill: n/a
- 20-Yard Shuttle: n/a
- Bench Press: 30
14) Dani Dennis-Sutton, Penn State
Previous Rank: 7 DE

Mel's Big Board: 64

Dani Dennis-Sutton's Measurements
- Height: 6'6"
- Weight: 256 lbs.
- Hand: 10 1/8"
- Arm: 33 1/2"
Dani Dennis-Sutton was a consistent disruptor in 2025, recording 42 total tackles, 8.5 sacks, and three pass defenses. He combines size, length, and physicality with a quick first step, showing the ability to pressure quarterbacks and hold up against the run.

Dani Dennis-Sutton's Results
- 40-Yard Dash: 4.63
- 10-Yard Split: 1.63
- Vertical Jump: 39.5”
- Broad Jump: 10'11"
- 3-Cone Drill: 6.9
- 20-Yard Shuttle: n/a
- Bench Press: n/a
15) Keyron Crawford, Auburn
Previous Rank: 10 OLB

Mel's Big Board: 75

Keyron Crawford's Combine Measurements
- Height: 6’4"
- Weight: 253 lbs.
- Hand: 9"
- Arm: 32"
Keyron Crawford anchored Auburn’s defense with a physical, downhill presence that showed up all season long. He produced 36 total tackles, five sacks, one forced fumble and one interception in 2025, flashing the versatility to impact both the pass rush and coverage. Crawford’s size and playmaking instincts give him intriguing upside at the next level.

Keyron Crawford's Combine Results
- 40-Yard Dash: n/a
- 10-Yard Split: n/a
- Vertical Jump: n/a
- Broad Jump: n/a
- 3-Cone Drill: n/a
- 20-Yard Shuttle: n/a
- Bench Press: n/a
16) Joshua Josephs, Tennessee
Previous Rank: 8 OLB

Mel's Big Board: 104

Joshua Josephs's Combine Measurements
- Height: 6’3"
- Weight: 242 lbs.
- Hand: 10"
- Arm: 34 1/4"
Joshua Josephs remained a steady force for Tennessee’s defense, providing versatility and toughness on the edge. During the 2025 season, he compiled 33 total tackles, four sacks, three forced fumbles and two pass defenses, frequently creating momentum-shifting plays. Josephs’ physical style and nose for the football keep him firmly in the mix among this year’s linebacker group.

Joshua Josephs's Combine Results
- 40-Yard Dash: n/a
- 10-Yard Split: n/a
- Vertical Jump: n/a
- Broad Jump: n/a
- 3-Cone Drill: n/a
- 20-Yard Shuttle: n/a
- Bench Press: n/a
17) Romello Height, Texas Tech
Previous Rank: 9 OLB

Mel's Big Board: 107

Romello Height's Combine Measurements
- Height: 6’3"
- Weight: 239 lbs.
- Hand: 9 1/2"
- Arm: 32 1/4"
Romello Height enjoyed a productive campaign at Texas Tech, emerging as one of the Big 12’s most disruptive defenders. He registered 38 total tackles, 10 sacks, two forced fumbles, and one pass defense in 2025, consistently collapsing the pocket and finishing plays in the backfield. Height’s pass-rushing ability has helped elevate his draft profile.

Romello Height's Combine Results
- 40-Yard Dash: 4.64
- 10-Yard Split: 1.63
- Vertical Jump: 39”
- Broad Jump: 10’5”
- 3-Cone Drill: n/a
- 20-Yard Shuttle: n/a
- Bench Press: n/a
18) LT Overton, Alabama
Previous Rank: 8 DE

Mel's Big Board: 110

LT Overton's Combine Measurements
- Height: 6'3"
- Weight: 274 lbs.
- Hand: 10 5/8"
- Arm: 33 1/4"
LT Overton recorded 40 total tackles, four sacks, and one pass defense in 2025. He pairs length and strength to set the edge, consistently applying pressure and holding up in the run game, showing the ability to impact both phases as a physical defensive end.

LT Overton's Combine Results
- 40-Yard Dash: 4.87
- 10-Yard Split: 1.70
- Vertical Jump: n/a
- Broad Jump: n/a
- 3-Cone Drill: n/a
- 20-Yard Shuttle: n/a
- Bench Press: n/a
19) Harold Perkins Jr., LSU
Previous Rank: NR

Mel's Big Board: 128

Harold Perkins's Combine Measurements
- Height: 6'0 7/8"
- Weight: 223 lbs.
- Hand: 8 1/8"
- Arm: 31 3/8"
Harold Perkins Jr. is one of the most polarizing and physically gifted "chess pieces" in the class. A "sideline-to-sideline" nightmare defined by elite closing speed and a rare ability to flatten to the quarterback. While some scouts initially questioned his fit as a traditional off-ball linebacker, his transition to a primary pass-rushing role revealed a prospect who can win with pure twitch and leverage.

Harold Perkins's Combine Results
- 40-Yard Dash: n/a
- 10-Yard Split: n/a
- Vertical Jump: n/a
- Broad Jump: n/a
- 3-Cone Drill: n/a
- 20-Yard Shuttle: n/a
- Bench Press: n/a
20) Caden Curry, Ohio State
Previous Rank: 9 DE

Mel's Big Board: 135

Caden Curry's Combine Measurements
- Height: 6'3"
- Weight: 257 lbs.
- Hand: 9 3/8"
- Arm: 30 1/8"
Caden Curry had a dominant 2025, recording 66 total tackles, 11 sacks, two pass defenses, and one forced fumble. He combines twitch, effort, and power off the edge, consistently disrupting the backfield and showing the ability to impact both the run and pass game.

Caden Curry's Combine Results
- 40-Yard Dash: n/a
- 10-Yard Split: n/a
- Vertical Jump: n/a
- Broad Jump: n/a
- 3-Cone Drill: n/a
- 20-Yard Shuttle: n/a
- Bench Press: n/a
21) Mason Reiger, Wisconsin
Previous Rank: NR

Mel's Big Board: 140

Mason Reiger's Combine Measurements
- Height: 6’5"
- Weight: 251 lbs.
- Hand: 10 3/8"
- Arm: 32 5/8"
Mason Reiger offered Wisconsin another reliable presence in the front seven, using his length and strength to create problems for opposing offenses. His 2025 campaign included 32 total tackles, five sacks, and one pass defense, highlighting his ability to generate pressure and hold his ground against the run. Reiger’s frame and physical tools keep him firmly on the radar moving forward.

Mason Reiger's Combine Results
- 40-Yard Dash: 4.78
- 10-Yard Split: 1.61
- Vertical Jump: 40”
- Broad Jump: 10’5”
- 3-Cone Drill: n/a
- 20-Yard Shuttle: n/a
- Bench Press: n/a
Honorable Mention: Max Llewellyn, Iowa
EDGE Rank: 23

Mel's Big Board: n/a

Max Llewellyn's Combine Measurements
- Height: 6'6"
- Weight: 258 lbs.
- Hand: 9"
- Arm: 32 1/4"
Max Llewellyn turned in a playmaking season with 26 tackles, 6.5 sacks, five pass defenses, and two forced fumbles in 2025. Known for his burst off the edge and ability to time blocks, he creates chaos in both passing and running situations, making him a high-impact, unpredictable presence on the field.

Max Llewellyn's Combine Results
- 40-Yard Dash: 4.81
- 10-Yard Split: 1.64
- Vertical Jump: 32.5”
- Broad Jump: 9’7”
- 3-Cone Drill: n/a
- 20-Yard Shuttle: n/a
- Bench Press: n/a
HM: Quintayvious Hutchins, Boston College
EDGE Rank: 27

Mel's Big Board: n/a

Quintayvious Hutchins's Combine Measurements
- Height: 6’3"
- Weight: 233 lbs.
- Hand: 9 1/2"
- Arm: 32 5/8"
Quintayvious Hutchins quietly put together a solid season at Boston College, showing flashes of disruptive ability throughout the year. He finished 2025 with 36 total tackles, two sacks, and a pass defense, providing steady production for the Eagles’ defense. Hutchins remains a prospect to watch as he continues to develop.

Quintayvious Hutchins's Combine Results
- 40-Yard Dash: 4.74
- 10-Yard Split: 1.73
- Vertical Jump: 37”
- Broad Jump: n/a
- 3-Cone Drill: n/a
- 20-Yard Shuttle: n/a
- Bench Press: n/a
HM: Logan Fano, Utah
EDGE Rank: 30

Mel's Big Board: n/a

Logan Fano's Measurements
- Height: 6'5"
- Weight: 257 lbs.
- Hand: 9 3/8’’
- Arm: 31 3/8"
Logan Fano finished 2025 with 44 tackles, 4.5 sacks, and two pass defenses, standing out for his quickness and ability to penetrate gaps. He’s an active, twitchy defender who can create backfield disruption, showing potential as a situational pass rusher early in his pro career.

Logan Fano's Combine Results
- 40-Yard Dash: n/a
- 10-Yard Split: n/a
- Vertical Jump: n/a
- Broad Jump: n/a
- 3-Cone Drill: n/a
- 20-Yard Shuttle: n/a
- Bench Press: n/a
HM: Vincent Anthony Jr., Duke
EDGE Rank: 32

Mel's Big Board: n/a

Vincent Anthony Jr.'s Combine Measurements
- Height: 6'6"
- Weight: 258 lbs.
- Hand: 10"
- Arm: 34 1/8"
Vincent Anthony Jr. used his length and athleticism to make plays in 2025, posting 34 total tackles, 7.5 sacks, two pass defenses, and a forced fumble. He flashes as a disruptive edge rusher, able to bend around the corner and get into the backfield, showing upside as a dynamic playmaker when he wins the leverage battles.

Vincent Anthony Jr.'s Combine Results
- 40-Yard Dash: 4.84
- 10-Yard Split: 1.67
- Vertical Jump: 32.5”
- Broad Jump: 10’3”
- 3-Cone Drill: n/a
- 20-Yard Shuttle: n/a
- Bench Press: n/a
HM: Tyreak Sapp, Florida
EDGE Rank: 36

Mel's Big Board: n/a

Tyreak Sapp's Measurements
- Height: 6'2"
- Weight: 273 lbs.
- Hand: 9 1/2’’
- Arm: 32’’
Tyreak Sapp totaled 34 tackles and one sack in 2025, showing flashes as a strong edge setter. He’s physical against the run and flashes burst on pass-rush downs, but consistency and finishing plays will determine his climb up draft boards.

Tyreak Sapp's Combine Results
- 40-Yard Dash: n/a
- 10-Yard Split: n/a
- Vertical Jump: n/a
- Broad Jump: n/a
- 3-Cone Drill: n/a
- 20-Yard Shuttle: n/a
- Bench Press: 28
HM: Ethan Burke, Texas
EDGE Rank: 43

Mel's Big Board: n/a

Ethan Burke's Measurements
- Height: 6'6"
- Weight: 259 lbs.
- Hand: n/a
- Arm: n/a
Ethan Burke posted 40 tackles, three sacks, one pass defense, and one forced fumble in 2025, using his rare length to disrupt passing lanes and edge runs. Burke is a high-upside, projectable athlete who can threaten quarterbacks when he pairs his frame with refined technique.

Ethan Burke's Combine Results
- 40-Yard Dash: n/a
- 10-Yard Split: n/a
- Vertical Jump: n/a
- Broad Jump: n/a
- 3-Cone Drill: n/a
- 20-Yard Shuttle: n/a
- Bench Press: n/a
NFL Draft: Mel Kiper EDGE Rankings
The wait is over—the 2026 NFL Draft in Pittsburgh officially begins tonight, April 23. In a major final recalibration released on April 21, ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr. has overhauled his board, merging his separate Defensive End and Outside Linebacker rankings into one definitive EDGE category. This shift reflects a league-wide demand for versatile disruptors who can terrorize the pocket from any alignment.

Elite Talent at the Peak

The new combined rankings are headlined by a pair of "blue-chip" superstars who have officially cemented themselves as Top 5 overall prospects. Arvell Reese (Ohio State) and David Bailey (Texas Tech)—both formerly classified as OLBs—lead the class, followed by a dense tier of high-impact defensive ends. Rueben Bain Jr. (Miami), Zion Young (Missouri), Akheem Mesidor (Miami), and Keldric Faulk (Auburn) all carry Top 30 grades, providing a deep pool of first-round talent.

The Meteor Rise of Malachi Lawrence

Perhaps the biggest storyline in the home stretch is the ascent of UCF’s Malachi Lawrence. After previously sitting at No. 6 among OLBs, Lawrence has vaulted to the No. 7 EDGE spot, leapfrogging several high-profile names on his way up. With 15 edge defenders currently represented in Kiper’s overall Top 75, tonight's first round and Day 2 on Friday in the Steel City are poised to be dominated by the men who bring the pressure.