2024 Class Rankings: Defensive Line Superlatives

We continue our superlative series by taking a look at the defensive line. These defensive linemen have unique skillsets they bring to the table to dominate the position uniquely.

BEST RUN DEFENDER

The best all-around best defensive lineman in this class. Jordan Thomas Jordan Thomas 6'6" | 265 lbs | DL Don Bosco Prep | 2024 State NJ excels and shines with his run defense. He consistently starts plays with good fundamentals. By using his hand and length and playing with good pas level for a play 6'6, he is able to stack and shed blockers with ease. In addition, able to keep his gap integrity and make tackles in one on one situations in the hole.

Thomas has uncanny athleticism for his size. Watching him pursue the ball when plays go away from him is a sight to see. At 6'6 300+ pounds watching him run like a gazelle is one of the main reasons why so many SEC schools like UGA, and Bama are hot on his trail. 

BEST PASS RUSHER

Kinsler could have easily earned the most versatile defensive line superlative, but his pass rushing is by far his best trait. 

For a player that's 6'4 250 pounds his first step isn't the most explosive, but it gets the job done. However, where he wins is he has an array of moves from a nice swim move to a spin move. He shows the ability to reach into the toolbox in different situations, which ultimately is what you have to do when pass-rushing against the best competition. 

With strong offers from Miami, Pitt, and Syracuse.  He's a low-risk, high-reward prospect who hasn't played his best football. Who also offers positional versatility at the college level. 

MOST MALLEABLE

Lawson deserves to be on this list somewhere. However, where exactly is the most pressing question? Due to his body type and how plays I believe his trajectory could go a number of different ways.

One thing that must be considered is the athleticism he possesses. He's a pure athlete playing both the defensive and offensive lines. As a defensive lineman, he flies around and makes plays at edge or at three tech. Most offensive linemen cannot handle that level of athleticism which makes him so dangerous and impactful. However, the issue. lies when you project him to the next level. I can easily see a situation where can pack on more weight and play on the interior, or a scenario when he becomes a stand-up edge rusher. 

He's earned four  Power 5 offers from Duke, Pitt, Kansas, and Syracuse. The potential is there and he's worth the investment. 

MOST EXPLOSIVE

Wynn had an impressive season where he recorded 13.5 sacks. His explosiveness is second to none in this class and that's how consistently wins. He can be even better this year especially if he hones in on using two moves frequently. However, in terms of having the first step explosiveness it takes to be a top-edge rusher, Wynn is your guy! 

Most Underrated

Joe Asiain Joe Asiain 6'3" | 280 lbs | DL St. Peter’s Prep | 2024 State NJ 's game isnt sexy but he gets the job done. He doesn't have one trait that sticks above the rest. However, he does play with a relentless motor and screams off the edge and plays with a fervor that makes you keep him on the field all three downs. He has good hand usage and is solid in the run game.

Joe has earned a bunch of division one offers from schools like Illinois, Boston College, Wake Forest, and Duke.