The 2026 NFL offseason is here and that means it’s time for mock drafts, draft profiles and everything that goes with them. So without further ado, here’s one of many Draft Profiles for the 2025 NFL draft.
Cashius Howell, DE/EDGE, Texas A&M
HT: 6’2
WT: 248 lbs
Accolades:
- Unanimous All-American (2025)
- SEC Defensive Player of the Year (2025)
- First-team All-SEC (2025)
- Third-team All-MAC (2023)
Video:
Pros:
- Explosive Start: Howell has a lightning-quick first step, creating immediate separation from tackles and showcasing his ankle flexibility to bend around the edge.
- Relentless Motor: He’s got a high-energy engine, pursuing plays across the formation with relentless energy from snap one to the final whistle.
- Scheme Versatility: Howell demonstrates impressive adaptability, dropping into coverage against tight ends while maintaining awareness in run fits.
- Pass-Rush Arsenal: He boasts multiple moves, including an effective inside counter, keeping tackles guessing on their sets.
- Bend and Flatten: His natural bend around the arc allows him to consistently threaten the quarterback’s back shoulder.
- Football IQ: Howell shines in complex situations, rarely fooled by misdirection or caught sleeping on RPO action.
- Active Hands: He shows advanced hand-fighting technique, winning leverage battles with active hands and violent swipes.
Cons:
- Anchor Strength: Howell struggles to hold the point of attack against power-gap schemes and double teams, lacking the anchor strength needed.
- Closing Speed: He sometimes lacks the closing speed in the backfield, allowing quarterbacks to escape potential sacks.
- Coverage Experience: Howell has limited experience in coverage situations, which may lead to growing pains in complex zone packages at the next level.
- Stack-and-Shed Technique: His technique needs refinement when facing offensive tackles in run defense, particularly when they get their hands on him.
- Competition Level: Questions remain about his experience playing in the MAC before moving to the SEC, potentially impacting his adjustment to stronger competition.
Summary:
Players like Howell with similar athletic profiles often exceed expectations when they land in the right system, but can get lost if misused or rushed into roles they’re not ready for. His jump from the MAC to the SEC shows he can handle tougher competition, but questions linger about whether his production was due to his skills or playing with higher-profile teammates. The ceiling’s high for a guy with his speed and bend, but the floor’s a situational pass rusher who struggles when teams run at him.
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