Five D-Lineman Ready to Dominate in the 2028 Rankings Update

The trenches often define the tone of a football season and this group of 2028 defensive linemen is preparing to do just that. With productive offseasons ahead and expanded opportunities on the horizon, these emerging prospects are focused on turning momentum into a meaningful impact. As rankings update and evaluations sharpen, these are the defensive linemen positioning themselves to emerge as new names on the radar for college scouts.    Triebel is a physically intriguing two-way prospect whose frame alone immediately stands out. At 6'5, 215 pounds, he brings length, athleticism and versatility that translate well to the defensive front. Triebel has the speed to shed blocks quickly and the strength to disrupt plays at the line of scrimmage. He finished the season with 19 total tackles, added a tackle for loss and showed strong instincts with three fumble recoveries. His ability to impact the game in multiple phases speaks to his football IQ and motor. With continued development and added strength this offseason, Triebel is positioned for a significant breakout and could quickly draw increased attention from college evaluators.     Kempfer is a high motor defensive lineman who consistently finds ways to impact plays near the line of scrimmage. He shows a quick first step, strong hands and the ability to shed blocks efficiently, allowing him to close gaps and finish tackles. Kempfer's athleticism also allows him to pursue plays from the backside, making him effective beyond his initial assignment. He wrapped up the season with 36 total tackles, one tackle for loss and a sack, showcasing his ability to apply pressure in passing situations. As he continues to refine his technique and add strength, Kempfer enters the offseason with momentum and the opportunity to take on a larger role as a reliable presence up front.     Lawrence is a defensive lineman trending toward a breakout season after putting together another steady campaign. He matched his freshman production, showing consistency and growth while continuing to establish himself as a dependable interior presence. Lawrence excels at anchoring against the run, using leverage and strength to clog lanes and force plays to bounce outside. He also flashes the ability to penetrate and disrupt plays behind the line of scrimmage. His physical style of play and willingness to do the dirty work make him valuable to any defensive front. With an offseason focused on explosiveness and refinement, Lawrence is a prospect ready to elevate his game and should emerge as a name college scouts start tracking closely.     Madrid is a trench prospect with the tools to make an impact on both sides of the ball but his defensive upside stands out. During his freshman season, he showed flashes of being a disruptive force up front, using his size and strength to battle through blocks and affect plays. With Arapahoe set to replace key contributors along the line, Madrid is in a strong position to step into an expanded role. His ability to shed blocks quickly, maintain leverage and finish plays makes him a reliable option moving forward. As he gains experience and continues developing physically, Madrid has a clear opportunity to solidify himself as a key piece and elevate his stock this season.     Wheeler is an interior defensive lineman trending upward as he continues to develop within a strong Ralston Valley program. He brings the size and physical presence needed to hold up against the run, showing promise as a future run stuffer in the middle. Wheeler appeared in several games this season, finishing with four total tackles and a tackle for loss, showing promise to be a dependable player. With a full offseason in the weight room and continued reps at the varsity level, his development curve is pointing in the right direction. Wheeler is a name to monitor as he works to earn a larger role and push toward breakout production in the upcoming season.

The trenches often define the tone of a football season and this group of 2028 defensive linemen is preparing to do just that. With productive offseasons ahead and expanded opportunities on the horizon, these emerging prospects are focused on turning momentum into a meaningful impact. As rankings update and evaluations sharpen, these are the defensive linemen positioning themselves to emerge as new names on the radar for college scouts.