$1.1M NIL-Valued Defender Could Challenge Arch Manning’s Path to 2025 Heisman Glory: Insider
$1.1M NIL-Valued Defender Could Challenge Arch Manning’s Path to 2025 Heisman Glory: Insider
It wouldn’t be hyperbolic to say that Caleb Downs might be the best defensive player in college football, and potentially the top-rated player eligible for the 2026 NFL Draft.
Peter Wood rounds out three Clemson prospects in the top 10 picks, highlighting why the Tigers currently sit No. 3 in CSN’s early Top 25 Power Rankings. The 6’3”, 315-pound defensive tackle is insanely disruptive as an interior presence, where his 8.5 TFLs and three sacks in 2024 showcase Woods’ ability to overpower with his upper body strength but also his instant first step that allows him to avoid contact and burst into the backfield.
Putting up 13 TFLs, 10.5 sacks, and one interception in 2024, Matayo Uiagalelei was incredibly productive on the Oregon Ducks’ defensive line and overwhelmed with his length. At 6’5” and 270 pounds, the disruptive pass rusher used his size and comprehensive wingspan to secure tackles, while his rare bend and refined pass rush plan allowed him to conquer offensive linemen with power and athleticism.
With Jalen Ramsey on the trade block, the Miami Dolphins must address what will become a glaring need on their roster. Aveion Terrell is currently the top cornerback on CSN’s 2026 NFL Draft Big Board and would be an instant starter in South Florida.
On tape, Anthony Hill Jr. is everywhere. The do-it-all linebacker led the SEC with 17 TFLs in 2024, as well as recording 113 tackles, eight sacks, and one interception. The Texas Longhorns defender is a maneuverable weapon whose athleticism, instincts, agility, and intelligence allow him to make plays in coverage and as a pass rusher.
Caleb Banks has the skillset to be an ascending prospect during the 2025 college football season. The Florida Gators’ defensive tackle is bruising when powering through contact, and has a potent burst off the line to barge past offensive linemen with his pure explosive force. At 6’6” and 329 pounds, Banks produced 29 QB pressures in 2024, registering 4.5 sacks, and has the potential to be even more disruptive.
At 6’6” and 288 pounds, Keldric Faulk is a big, strong, stout edge rusher whose frame, strength, and athleticism overwhelm offensive linemen. The Auburn Tigers pass rusher has 11 TFLs and seven sacks in 2024, displaying exemplary flexibility and pass rush arsenal to get after the passer. Meanwhile, his run defense ranks among the best in this class.
After dominating college football as a true freshman in 2023, having 12.5 TFLs and 7.4 sacks in his maiden season, injury hampered Rueben Bain Jr.’s ascent in 2024. But if he can get back to his best now at full health, a beast is waiting to be unlocked.
The Buccaneers were heavily linked to Jihaad Campbell during the 2025 NFL Draft, but opted to push their linebacker need into the future. Here they land Georgia Bulldog CJ Allen, one of two linebackers from Athens currently in the top 25 of CSN’s 2026 NFL Draft big board.
