By Blessing 
Texas A&M Edge Rusher Nic Scourton: A Rising Star in the 2025 NFL Draft
Nic Scourton has been making waves on the football field, and with the 2025 NFL Draft approaching, he’s becoming a name that scouts and teams are keeping a close eye on. The Texas A&M defensive lineman has showcased his strength, skill, and relentless effort, making him one of the top defensive prospects in this year’s class.
A Dominant Force on the Field
Scourton’s ability to disrupt plays and pressure quarterbacks has been evident throughout his college career. This past season, he led Texas A&M with 14 tackles for loss and recorded five sacks, proving his effectiveness as a pass rusher and run-stopper. His versatility allows him to play all three downs, a trait that makes him an asset for any NFL defense.
Before transferring to Texas A&M in 2024, Scourton made a significant impact at Purdue, racking up 10 sacks in the 2023 season while competing in the Big Ten. Though he may not have the ideal size or arm length that some scouts look for in an elite edge rusher, his technique, effort, and football IQ more than make up for it.
Recognized for His Impact
Scourton’s performance on the field has earned him high praise. He was a finalist for the prestigious Lott IMPACT Trophy, an award given to the top defensive player who exemplifies integrity, maturity, performance, academics, community involvement, and tenacity. His ability to play with discipline and leadership qualities make him a natural fit for an organization like the Detroit Lions, who value toughness and resilience.
According to Pro Football Focus, Scourton has posted a 90.8 pass-rush grade since 2023, ranking him eighth among all Power Four edge defenders. That level of consistency and dominance in the trenches has solidified his place as a top prospect.
Expert Opinions on Scourton’s Game
NFL analysts have taken notice of Scourton’s unique skill set. Eric Edholm of NFL.com describes him as a “bull in a china shop-defender who wins with mass, effort, and will.” He noted that Scourton may have bulked up too much last season but arrived at the NFL Combine at a leaner 257 pounds, which could be his optimal playing weight.
Bucky Brooks, another NFL.com analyst, ranks Scourton as the No. 1 true defensive end in the draft class, placing him ahead of standout players like Jack Sawyer (Ohio State), Landon Jackson (Arkansas), Princely Umanmielen (Mississippi), and his own Texas A&M teammate Shemar Stewart.
“Nic Scourton is a disruptive force off the edge as an energetic pass rusher,” Brooks wrote. “The Texas A&M standout plays like a bull in a china shop, exhibiting a combination of strength and power that overwhelms blockers at the line.”
Scourton has also earned high rankings from other top analysts. Dane Brugler of The Athletic ranks him as the No. 53 overall prospect, while Pro Football Focus lists him at No. 31 among the top 300 players in the class. NFL Media’s Daniel Jeremiah has him at No. 49 in his Top 50 prospects ranking, and ESPN’s Jordan Reid places him at No. 45.
Strengths and Areas for Growth
While Scourton is widely regarded as a high-motor player with an excellent array of pass-rush moves, some scouts have noted that his lack of elite length and size might limit him against NFL offensive tackles. However, Field Yates of ESPN sees Scourton as a well-rounded defender who can make an impact right away.
“He is a tone-setting run defender who also brings a nifty arsenal of pass-rush moves (including a potent inside spin),” Yates wrote. “He is a powerful, thickly built edge rusher who can get underneath opposing offensive tackles.”
Scourton’s Own Perspective
At the NFL Combine, Scourton shared insight into his playing style and inspirations. When asked about which NFL players he studies, he said, “You know, I take a piece from everybody. There are a lot of great ones. Dwight Freeney, you know. A lot of guys with spin moves. Brian Burns, Rashan Gary, Aidan Hutchinson. I just love watching those guys get after it.”
His appreciation for elite pass rushers and dedication to refining his craft could make him an immediate contributor in the NFL.
Where Will He Land?
With draft day approaching, Scourton is projected to be a late first-round or early second-round pick. While he may not have the prototypical measurables of a top-five edge rusher, his technique, effort, and ability to impact games make him a highly valuable prospect.
For teams in need of a relentless defender who can set the edge and apply pressure, Nic Scourton is a name worth remembering. Whether it’s in Detroit or elsewhere, expect to see him making plays on Sundays in the near future.