2026 NFL Draft Summer Scouting - DTs

Newt Westen

And just like that, we are on to the defense! This is probably my favorite group of all to evaluate. Big game wreckers that come in so many different packages and disrupt in so many different ways. From athletic interior pass rushers to big run-stuffing nose tackles, this group has it all. This is the group that introduced me to the Draft Professor and Owen, and it was also the group for which I had the opportunity to write up content for CheeseheadTV during the 2025 NFL Draft cycle. Needless to say, this group holds a special spot in my heart.

The seventh episode in the series is available to view below–please check it out! While you're there, a like and a subscription to the Weekly Huddle would mean a ton to Owen (Twitter: @WeeklyHuddle) and me!

As always, I would appreciate hearing your thoughts on the rankings. The best way to talk about it is by hitting me up on the app formerly known as Twitter, @NFLDraft_Westen. I hope to hear from you! If you enjoyed this ranking, be sure to check out the previous position rankings:

QB Summer Scouting

RB Summer Scouting

WR Summer Scouting

TE Summer Scouting

OT Summer Scouting

IOL Summer Scouting

Until next time, Prost!