Scouting the Trenches: A Mailbag on Evaluating Defensive Linemen
Defensive linemen are the heart of a strong defense, often the first line of defense against the run and the key to generating pressure on the quarterback. Evaluating these players can be tricky—it’s not just about size and strength. The best defensive linemen are athletes who combine power, agility, and technique. In this mailbag, our staff writers tackle a question from one of our readers about how to properly scout defensive linemen and what qualities to look for when assessing these players.
Q: “What are the key traits to look for when scouting defensive linemen, and how do you differentiate between a future star and just a good player?”
Staff Writer 1 – The Power Player:
When it comes to evaluating defensive linemen, the first thing I always look for is explosiveness. Whether they’re playing as a defensive tackle (DT) or a defensive end (DE), a great defensive lineman needs to fire off the ball with intensity. This is especially critical for the interior guys (defensive tackles). First-step quickness is what separates an average defensive lineman from a game-changer. A lineman who can get off the ball quicker than his opponent can collapse the pocket and disrupt plays before they even develop.
For defensive tackles, particularly those in a 3-technique (lined up between the guard and tackle), upper body strength is key. A player needs to be able to shed blockers quickly after using their quickness to get into the backfield. If a DT can consistently drive blockers backward, they can break down an offense’s rhythm, which is often the most disruptive form of pass rush.
On the edge, bend is one of the most important attributes for a defensive end. Being able to turn the corner and bend around offensive tackles without losing speed is a trait that future stars like Myles Garrett and T.J. Watt possess. These players are able to gain leverage, using their hips to slip past blockers and get to the quarterback with speed and precision.
Staff Writer 2 – The Technical Analyst:
I agree with the points about explosiveness and strength, but I want to dive deeper into the technique and hand placement of defensive linemen. The best pass rushers at every level have a wide array of hand moves that they use to disengage from blockers. Whether it’s a swim move, rip, or a club, these defensive linemen use their hands to establish leverage and gain separation from blockers.
Another aspect that’s critical when scouting is play recognition. A top-tier defensive lineman doesn’t just rely on his athleticism; he also has a high football IQ. You want to see players who can read the offense and react quickly to run/pass decisions. A defensive lineman who can diagnose a play pre-snap and anticipate the offensive line’s movements is often more successful than a player who simply relies on brute force.
For example, Aaron Donald’s ability to understand blocking schemes and time his movements makes him one of the most feared defensive linemen in the league. He’s not just physically gifted, but he’s also a student of the game. A player who combines high football IQ with physical gifts is a rare find.
Staff Writer 3 – The Disruptor’s Perspective:
When I’m scouting defensive linemen, versatility stands out to me. Can this player line up at multiple positions and still make an impact? For instance, defensive tackles who can play both the 1-technique (over the center) and the 3-technique (over the guard) can be huge assets. On the edge, a player who can play both defensive end and occasionally outside linebacker in a 3-4 system has immense value. Position flexibility means the player can be used in various schemes and gives a defensive coordinator more options to design creative blitz packages.
Motor is another critical component when evaluating defensive linemen. A strong pass rusher who gives maximum effort on every play—even when the play isn’t near him—can wear down offensive linemen over the course of a game. Players like J.J. Watt are known for their relentless pursuit and high motor, which allows them to remain effective throughout all four quarters. If a defensive lineman doesn’t consistently give effort, that’s a huge red flag, as they’re likely not going to maximize their potential in the NFL.
Staff Writer 4 – The Future Star Analyst:
To me, what sets apart a future star from a good player is the ability to take over a game when the stakes are high. The elite defensive linemen are the ones who can disrupt the game’s flow when the team needs them most. This could mean creating turnovers, collapsing the pocket in critical moments, or setting up teammates for easy sacks by disrupting the offensive line’s blocking schemes.
Another important trait is balance—not just physically, but mentally. A defensive lineman with a low center of gravity and good balance is much harder to move off the ball. This is crucial in both the run game and pass rush. A player who’s constantly thrown off balance by offensive linemen will never consistently win at the point of attack. On the mental side, the best defensive linemen have the ability to adjust mid-game, learning how offensive linemen are attacking them and making adjustments accordingly.
Final Thoughts:
When scouting defensive linemen, it’s important to evaluate the full picture: explosiveness, technique, motor, football IQ, versatility, and how they impact games. The great ones—the future stars—combine those traits in ways that make them game-changers. Whether it’s the edge rushers who can bend the corner and pressure quarterbacks or the interior disruptors who can collapse the pocket and shut down the run game, the best defensive linemen can dominate games and completely alter the outcome.
If you can find a defensive lineman who combines elite athleticism with technique and relentless effort, you’ve got the potential for a game-changer—and that’s what separates good players from true stars.