Full Breakdown
NFL Draft Misses of 2025: A Closer Look at Edge Rushers
4/18/2026, 12:47:53 PM
Overview of Draft Performance
The 2025 NFL Draft has seen several edge rushers underperform during their rookie seasons, raising concerns for franchises that invested significant draft capital in these players. Among the notable selections are Shemar Stewart of the Cincinnati Bengals, Landon Jackson of the Buffalo Bills, and James Pearce Jr. of the Atlanta Falcons. Each player has faced challenges that have hindered their development and contributions to their respective teams.
Key Players and Their Struggles
Shemar Stewart, DE, Cincinnati Bengals
Selected 17th overall, Stewart's transition to the NFL has been rocky. He reported late to training camp and only participated in eight games, recording a mere four quarterback hits and one sack. With Trey Hendrickson's departure to the Ravens, the Bengals are counting on Stewart to step up in the upcoming season.
Landon Jackson, DE, Buffalo Bills
Jackson, drafted 72nd overall, struggled to make an impact, playing only three games before suffering a season-ending knee injury. He failed to record any statistics during his limited appearances, prompting questions about his future role in the Bills' defensive scheme under new coordinator Jim Leonhard.
James Pearce Jr., DE, Atlanta Falcons
Pearce's situation is complicated by off-field issues. Despite a strong performance on the field with 10.5 sacks, he faces serious legal troubles, including three felony charges. This uncertainty casts a shadow over his future with the Falcons, who traded a future first-round pick to acquire him.
Oluwafemi Oladejo, DE, Tennessee Titans
Oladejo's rookie season was marred by injury, as he fractured his leg and played only six games. Prior to his injury, he had shown promise, recording 13 tackles and two quarterback hits.
JT Tuimoloau, DE, Indianapolis Colts
Tuimoloau, once projected as a first-round talent, fell to the Colts in the second round. He participated in 13 games but was limited to 215 defensive snaps, failing to secure a sack.
Matthew Golden, WR, Green Bay Packers
Although primarily a wide receiver, Golden's selection at 23rd overall was intended to bolster the Packers' receiving corps. He caught only 29 passes for 361 yards, failing to find the end zone.
Implications for Future Drafts
The struggles of these edge rushers highlight the risks associated with drafting players at this position. The recent record-setting contract for Will Anderson Jr. of the Houston Texans, worth $150 million, may influence how teams approach the edge rusher market in future drafts. Teams may prioritize securing young talent on rookie contracts to avoid the financial burden of veteran deals.
Official Statements & Responses
The Bengals expressed their commitment to developing Stewart, emphasizing the need for him to step up following Hendrickson's exit. The Bills acknowledged Jackson's potential but are cautious about his recovery and future contributions. The Falcons have not publicly commented on Pearce's legal issues, focusing instead on his on-field performance.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics argue that the teams' decisions to draft these players high in the draft may have been premature, given their lack of immediate impact. Analysts suggest that the franchises must reassess their scouting and development strategies to avoid repeating these mistakes.
Conclusion
The 2025 NFL Draft has produced several edge rushers whose performances have raised concerns among their respective teams. As franchises prepare for the next draft, the lessons learned from these selections may shape their strategies moving forward, particularly in evaluating talent and managing contracts.
