2027 Rankings Update Sleeper Edge Rushers on the Rise

Today we will be taking a look at some edge rushers that are looking to hit the camp circuit and draw some college attention. These are the prospect that you will need to add to the radar as they try to make a splash this offseason.    Shefte brings an impressive physical profile to the edge position, standing at 6'5 and 230 pounds with a frame that projects well to the next level. His combination of length and athleticism allows him to disrupt plays and he shows a quick first step that helps him get into the backfield in a hurry. Shefte finished the season with 76 total tackles, along with two tackles for loss and a sack, reflecting his ability to stay active and involved in defensive production. He shows promising traits as a pass rusher, using his speed and get off to put pressure on opposing QBs. As he continues to add strength and refine his technique, his ceiling becomes even more intriguing. With added development in the weight room and exposure on the camp circuit, Shefte is a prospect who could generate significant Division I interest moving forward.     Jara delivered one of the more eye catching statistical seasons among small school defenders, showcasing his ability to dominate from a hybrid linebacker role. He recorded 51 total tackles, an impressive 23 tackles for loss and 15 sacks, demonstrating a consistent ability to disrupt plays in the backfield. His production highlights his effectiveness as a pass rusher and his instincts when attacking downhill. Terrones Jara also shows the versatility to drop into coverage, giving him added value as a defender who can impact multiple phases of the game. His ability to read plays and react quickly allows him to capitalize on opportunities and create negative plays for the defense. With increased exposure through camps and offseason competition, he has the potential to attract more attention from college programs at the next level.     Knezel is a small school prospect who continues to build momentum through consistent production and strong fundamentals. He finished the season with 76 total tackles, 10 tackles for loss and three sacks, showing his ability to contribute across multiple areas of the defense. Knezel demonstrates a solid understanding of the game, reading his keys and reacting quickly to get in on plays. He shows the ability to shed blocks and pursue the football, bringing energy and effort on every snap. His physical approach allows him to hold his ground and make plays in both the run and pass game. As he continues to develop strength and refine his technique, Knezel has the tools to elevate his game. A productive offseason combined with increased exposure could help him gain traction with Division II and Division III programs.     Martinez is a developing linebacker who shows promise as a defender capable of contributing from the edge and in space. He finished the season with 42 total tackles and one tackle for loss, demonstrating his ability to be involved in defensive production. Martinez shows good pursuit, consistently rallying to the football and finishing plays in the open field. His strength lies in his ability to support the run from the perimeter, using his awareness and effort to make plays. As he continues to develop physically, adding strength and refining his technique will be key to unlocking his full potential. With a focused offseason and continued improvement, Martinez has the opportunity to expand his role and become a more impactful defender moving forward.     Kline possesses the physical tools that immediately stand out, measuring in at 6'4 and 230 pounds, he has a frame that fits the mold of a next level edge defender. While his production from last season was modest, totaling 27 tackles, three tackles for loss and four quarterback hurries, his upside remains intriguing. Kline shows flashes of his potential, particularly in his ability to use his size and length to create disruption. With continued development in technique and consistency, he has the opportunity to translate his physical traits into increased production. A strong offseason focused on refinement and exposure in the camp circuit could help him take a significant step forward. Kline is a prospect who has the tools to emerge as a breakout candidate.     Hanou is an intriguing prospect whose versatility and physical traits offer multiple pathways for development. He is a Tackle that brings a combination of speed and strength, though his frame may project more naturally to an edge rusher at the next level. His quickness off the ball and ability to drive defender back and control his gaps stand out as key strengths. Hanou has the tools to become an impact defender, particularly if he transitions to a role that maximizes his athleticism in space. His ability to move laterally and pursue plays gives him added value, especially in systems that emphasize versatility. As he continues to refine his position and build on his strengths, Hanou has the potential to draw interest from programs looking for adaptable defensive linemen but can also be on the board as an offensive lineman as well.

Today we will be taking a look at some edge rushers that are looking to hit the camp circuit and draw some college attention. These are the prospect that you will need to add to the radar as they try to make a splash this offseason.