Relentless Rushers: Top 2028 DEs You Need to Know

The Class of 2028 is shaping up to be loaded on the defensive line, especially at the edge position where several young prospects are already showing varsity-level traits. These defensive ends bring an exciting blend of size, athleticism, motor, and natural instincts that project extremely well as they continue to develop. Whether it's explosive first-step quickness, violent hand usage, or the ability to set the edge in the run game, this group stands out on film. Even at a young age, each prospect displays the effort, discipline, and toughness needed to become a high-level pass rusher. As they grow into their frames and refine their technique, their ceilings are extremely high. Here's a breakdown of five 2028 defensive ends who look poised to become major names in the next recruiting cycle.    Brehysen May is an explosive edge rusher with one of the quickest first steps in the class. He consistently wins off the snap, shooting gaps and forcing quarterbacks to speed up their reads. May uses his hands well for a young defender, showing the ability to disengage and redirect with purpose. His motor is elite—he never stops chasing plays, even when they break away from him. He also shows great instincts in the run game, maintaining leverage and setting a strong edge. With continued growth in strength and technique, May has the potential to be a dominant force off the edge.     DeMarcus Dale Brown is a powerful defensive end who thrives on physicality and strength at the point of attack. He uses his hands with violence, shedding blocks and collapsing running lanes. His lower-body power stands out, allowing him to anchor against double teams and hold his ground. Brown also flashes impressive burst when rushing the passer, especially on inside moves. His ability to play disciplined, assignment-sound football makes him a coach's dream on the defensive line. As he continues to develop his pass-rush arsenal, his upside only grows.     [player_tooltip player_id='1635703' first='Kelveyon' last='Malone'] is a long, rangy edge defender who uses his frame to affect passing lanes and disrupt plays. He moves extremely well laterally, giving him the ability to chase plays down from behind. Malone's quickness off the edge makes him a constant threat in the backfield. He plays with great awareness, reading option plays and forcing offenses into mistakes. His length allows him to keep blockers off his chest and control engagements. With added strength and weight, Malone has the tools to become a high-level edge defender.     [player_tooltip player_id='2077276' first='Hagen' last='Wallace'] is a technically sound defensive end who wins with effort, discipline, and clean fundamentals. He stays low out of his stance, giving him leverage advantages against bigger linemen. Wallace is a reliable run defender, consistently setting a hard edge and forcing plays back inside. His pass-rush timing is improving, and he shows a natural feel for when to counter inside. He plays with toughness, rarely giving ground and always fighting through the whistle. Wallace's steady growth and high football IQ make him a rising prospect in this class.     Jackson Mann is a high-motor defender who brings nonstop energy to the edge of the defense. He explodes off the ball and accelerates quickly, creating immediate stress for offensive tackles. Mann excels in backside pursuit, running down plays with impressive effort and speed. He displays strong hand placement and uses leverage well to win physical battles. His versatility allows him to play both as a true edge rusher and as a run-stopping defensive end. With more development in pass-rushing technique, Mann projects as a dangerous long-term talent.

The Class of 2028 is shaping up to be loaded on the defensive line, especially at the edge position where several young prospects are already showing varsity-level traits. These defensive ends bring an exciting blend of size, athleticism, motor, and natural instincts that project extremely well as they continue to develop. Whether it's explosive first-step quickness, violent hand usage, or the ability to set the edge in the run game, this group stands out on film. Even at a young age, each prospect displays the effort, discipline, and toughness needed to become a high-level pass rusher. As they grow into their frames and refine their technique, their ceilings are extremely high. Here's a breakdown of five 2028 defensive ends who look poised to become major names in the next recruiting cycle.