PRZ Exposure Series: Edge Rushers Dominate in DFW

<p>The trenches were loaded with talent at the PRZ Exposure Series in DFW as several defensive linemen put together strong performances throughout the combine and 1-on-1 portion of the event. From explosive get-offs and active hands to fluid movement skills and relentless motors, the defensive front group brought energy all day long. Multiple prospects showcased pass-rush polish, athleticism in space, and the ability to disrupt consistently against quality competition.</p>   <p>Here are several defensive line standouts who elevated their stock in DFW.</p>    <p class="text-gray-700">Benavides was one of the more intriguing defensive prospects in attendance. The 6-foot-3, 220-pound edge defender displayed an explosive first step, long reach, and impressive bend rushing off the edge. He consistently moved well in space and showed strong athletic traits throughout the combine drills, flashing agility, quickness, and body control.</p>   <p>At the point of attack, Benavides played with strength and discipline while showing the ability to close quickly during the pass rush drills. His junior film backs up the production and motor, as he earned First Team All-District honors at defensive end and long snapper after recording 54 tackles, nine sacks, one interception, and 12 quarterback pressures at Deer Park.</p>   <p class="text-gray-700">Benavides also brings verified athleticism from the track, posting a personal-best 52-second split in the 4x400 relay this spring. With his length, movement skills, and developing pass-rush upside, he is a junior prospect college coaches need to evaluate closely. He recently picked up an offer from Texas A&M–Texarkana.</p>   <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"> https://twitter.com/Michael_benny27/status/1992296834648166529?s=20 </div></figure>     <p class="text-gray-700">Burkett put together a strong overall showing with his athleticism, his ability to play with great leverage, and the ability to win reps during the 1-on-1 period. He consistently used his hands well at the point of attack and showed quality bend coming off the edge. His quick first step allowed him to create pressure early in reps, and he showed the ability to change directions efficiently during combine work.</p>   <p class="text-gray-700">On film, Burkett plays with a relentless motor and attacking mentality. He dominates from odd-front alignments, using leverage and excellent pad level to create disruption in both the run and pass game. His pursuit effort stands out, and he consistently plays fast downhill with physicality.</p>   <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"> https://twitter.com/BurkettThomason/status/2026809573177168205?s=20 </div></figure>     <p class="text-gray-700">Evans emerged as a young prospect to know in Central Texas after a stellar performance in DFW. The Austin Bowie defender showcased an explosive first step, fluid lateral movement, and strong bend throughout the event. He moved efficiently during combine drills, showing burst, quickness, and impressive change-of-direction ability.</p>   <p class="text-gray-700">His film reveals a high-energy defender who plays relentlessly in pursuit and sets the edge effectively in a three-man front. Evans also showed his disruptive ability on special teams, blocking multiple punts during the season. With his extended length, motor, and athletic upside, Evans is a developing defensive prospect whose ceiling will rise as he matures physically.</p>   <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"> https://twitter.com/Luke_Evans29/status/2052587796368400476?s=20 </div></figure>     <p class="text-gray-700">Mellette brought a physical presence to the defensive line group with his stout frame and power at the point of attack. He was quick off the football and consistently showed a strong punch at engagement. During combine drills, he moved well in space and displayed quality agility, bend, and burst.</p>   <p class="text-gray-700">His sophomore film highlights his versatility, showing the ability to line up both as a 3-technique and as an edge defender. Mellette sets the edge effectively against the run, pushes the pocket from the interior, and stays active throughout plays. His combination of strength, motor, and positional flexibility makes him a prospect to continue tracking in Central Texas.</p>   <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"> https://twitter.com/kingmellette/status/2044610189869957232?s=20 </div></figure>

The trenches were loaded with talent at the PRZ Exposure Series in DFW as several defensive linemen put together strong performances throughout the combine and 1-on-1 portion of the event. From explosive get-offs and active hands to fluid movement skills and relentless motors, the defensive front group brought energy all day long. Multiple prospects showcased pass-rush polish, athleticism in space, and the ability to disrupt consistently against quality competition.