The Indianapolis Colts added some depth to the defensive line in Round 2 of the 2025 NFL Draft.
With the No. 45 overall pick, general manager Chris Ballard opted to stay put rather than trading back. After making that decision, he selected Ohio State edge rusher JT Tuimoloau.
Known for his abilities as a power rusher, Tuimoloau should be competing for a role along the defensive line with Kwity Paye while 2024 first-rounder Laiatu Latu works on the weakside as a speed rushers.
A three-year starter at Ohio State, Tuimoloau earned First-Team Big Ten honors twice throughout his collegiate career. In 54 games (41 starts), Tuimoloau recorded 23.5 sacks and 43.5 tackles for loss.
In 2024, Tuimoloau was a major part of the Buckeyes' championship run, recording 12.5 sacks and 21.5 tackles for loss across 16 games (all starts).
Here's how the NFL experts graded the Colts' selection of Tuimoloau:
Colts NFL draft grades for JT Tuimoloau
Vinnie Iyer, The Sporting News: B
Iyer: "The Colts also tap into some strong 4-3 talent thinking more about adding unique pass-rush and run-stopping power to better complement Kwity Paye."
Chris Trapasso, CBS Sports: B+
Trapasso: "NFL-ready, three-down defensive end with quality athletic traits in a sizable frame. Will set a sturdy edge, flash some calculated hand work in obvious passing situations. Isn't a super-explosive defender on the outside. Indy had to get better on the outside of their defensive line."
Acosta: "This is an interesting one. Tuimoloau is a quality edge defender who can win with power and knows his pass rush plan. He’s a little athletically limited, but he’s got good instincts and is a disciplined defender. He’ll help raise the floor of the Colts’ defense."
Matt Verderame, Sports Illustrated: B
Verderame: "Tuimoloau could be one of the most underrated edge rushers in this class. He might not have an elite trait, but he’s a well-rounded playmaker who seems to always be in the right place at the right time. That was easy to see during his many clutch plays in the lead-up to the Buckeyes winning the national championship."
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