Charles Omenihu suffered a torn ACL during last year’s playoff run, which significantly hindered the Kansas City Chiefs during the first half of the 2024 season. Besides George Karlaftis, the team struggles to find reliable production from its defensive ends. The Chiefs should target at least one edge rusher in the 2025 NFL draft.
UCLA defensive lineman Oluwafemi Oladejo opened the season as an off-ball linebacker, but the Bruins asked him to step down and play defensive end. Despite the recent transition, Oladejo’s frame carries the necessary mass to play along the defensive line in the NFL. His arm length isn’t great but should meet the league’s requirements.
Oladejo’s pass-rush plan lacks the development and depth to make an immediate impact at the next level. This places a cap on his draft stock, but analysts remain optimistic about his ability to learn crucial pass-rush moves and counters. He primarily wins with his speed rush, inside spins, chops, rips, and two-handed swipes.
It’s early, but UCLA is playing with incredible effort today at Penn State. No one gives them a chance to win.
Look at this sack by Oluwafemi Oladejo. pic.twitter.com/1NVbSSfT2i— Landon Hall (@LandonHall) October 5, 2024
Oladejo needs to develop his hand usage to keep offensive linemen out of his frame. His high pad level and inconsistent use of bend limit his ability to win outside rushes. As a former linebacker, Oladejo lacks the power to bull rush offensive linemen. He generates most of his wins by attacking or countering into the B-gap.
Oladejo makes up for some of his shortcomings as a pass rusher with his work in run defense. He maximizes his arm length to stack, peak, and shed blocks and sets a surprisingly nice edge. Oladejo’s closing burst makes him a threat as a backside run defender, and he frequently blasts through gaps to make tackles in the backfield.
Oladejo’s reliability in run defense and upside as a developing pass rusher suggest he could go as high as the late third round.
UCLA renews its rivalry with USC as the Bruins take on the Trojans at home on Saturday at 9:30 p.m. CST. USC’s offensive line struggled to block talented pass rushers earlier this season and could provide Oladejo with some big play opportunities.
