With the Indianapolis Colts on their bye week, let’s take a look ahead to the 2025 NFL draft with Pro Football Focus’ top interior defensive linemen.
To take a closer look at a few other potential positions of need for the Colts that we’ve previewed and the top prospects, follow the links below.
Cornerback
Tight end
Safety
Running backs
Linebackers
Offensive linemen
The foundation at this position group is set for the time being. DeForest Buckner is under contract through the 2026 season as is Grover Stewart.
However, a big part of the general manager’s job is planning ahead and 2026 is only two season away. In addition to that, in the more short-term, improved depth behind Buckner and Stewart should be a priority.
When those two aren’t on the field, there is a fairly big dropoff in the level of play. To some extent, that’s going to be the case with players of Buckner’s and Stewart’s caliber, but the Colts need more from the rotational members of this unit.
Right now, those roles belong to Taven Bryan, who will be a free agent in 2025, and Raekwon Davis, who was signed to a two-year deal this past offseason–although the Colts can get out of that contract in 2025 and save $6.49 million in cap space.
In PFF’s pass rush productivity metric, Bryan ranks 79th out of 115 eligible defensive tackles in that category with Davis ranking 110th. Against the run, Bryan ranks 102nd in run-stop rate and Davis 128th.
So with all of that said, let’s take a look at Trevor Sikkema’s top defensive linemen in the 2025 draft class. In parenthesis is the player’s overall ranking on Sikkema’s big board.
For a closer look at each prospect, click here.
Mason Graham, Michigan (3)
Kenneth Grant, Michigan (25)
Tyleik Williams, Ohio State (32)
TJ Sanders, South Carolina (36)
Walter Nolen, Ole Miss (39)
