Antwaun Powell-Ryland is an edge rusher from Virginia Tech who has been turning heads in the lead-up to the 2025 NFL Draft. While specific measurements are not provided in the search results, Powell-Ryland is described as a diversified pass rusher with an impressive blend of speed, power, and technical ability.
Pass Rushing Ability
Powell-Ryland’s primary strength lies in his pass-rushing prowess. He showcases a mature repertoire of moves, combining speed, power, bend, and technicality at the position. His ability to win consistently from various alignments is a testament to his versatility and football IQ.
Pass Rush Moves:
- Speed rush to the outside shoulder
- Powerful and smooth up-and-under move
- Swim move
- Club-rip technique
- Inside spin move
Powell-Ryland’s hand usage is particularly noteworthy. He employs “spring-loaded” hands that can put opponents of all sizes on their heels. His striking technique is excellent, and he can vary his punch timing and speeds from different alignments and angles at the top of his rush.
Physical Tools
While not described as the biggest or strongest athlete, Powell-Ryland compensates with his technical skills and athleticism. He displays good burst off the snap and maintains a low pad level, reducing the surface area for opponents to target. His balance when faced with contact is impressive, as he rarely gets jolted back and consistently works through blocks into the opponent’s chest.
Production and Statistics
Powell-Ryland’s 2024 season at Virginia Tech was particularly impressive. He finished just half a sack shy of the Power 4 lead in sacks. His performance included:
- Three games with at least three sacks each (vs. Old Dominion, Boston College, and Virginia)
- 15.1% pressure rate (ranked in the top 10 among Power 4 defenders)
- Three forced fumbles
- One blocked punt
His three-game performance with at least three sacks each was a feat not accomplished by a power conference defender since Missouri’s Michael Sam in 2013.
Versatility
Powell-Ryland has shown success both as a left defensive end (LE) and right defensive end (RE) within Virginia Tech‘s defensive scheme. This positional flexibility will be valuable at the NFL level, allowing defensive coordinators to move him around to create favorable matchups.
Motor and Effort
Scouts have noted Powell-Ryland’s high motor and relentless effort. He’s described as a player who never stops churning his legs at contact, showcasing the kind of persistence and work ethic that NFL teams covet.
Areas for Improvement
While the search results don’t explicitly mention weaknesses, it’s implied that Powell-Ryland may not have elite size or strength compared to some other prospects. This could potentially be an area for improvement as he transitions to the NFL, where he’ll face larger and more powerful offensive linemen.
Draft Projection
Based on various mock drafts and rankings, Powell-Ryland’s draft stock appears to be on the rise. His projected draft position ranges from the 3rd to 7th round, with most projections placing him in the 4th to 6th round range. His strong performance at the 2025 Shrine Bowl practices has been noted and could further improve his draft stock.
NFL Combine Invitation
Powell-Ryland has been invited to the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine, which will take place in Indianapolis from February 24 through March 3. This event will be crucial for him to showcase his physical abilities and potentially improve his draft stock.
Pro Comparison and NFL Projection
While no direct pro comparisons are provided in the search results, Powell-Ryland’s skill set suggests he could develop into a valuable rotational pass rusher at the NFL level, with the potential to become a starter if he can continue to refine his technique and possibly add strength.
His ability to win with both speed and power, combined with his diverse pass-rush moves, makes him an intriguing prospect for teams looking to bolster their pass rush. Powell-Ryland’s experience playing both left and right defensive end positions adds to his value, as it demonstrates scheme versatility.
Conclusion
Antwaun Powell-Ryland presents an intriguing package of pass-rushing skills, technical ability, and production at the collegiate level. While he may not be the most physically imposing edge prospect in the 2025 NFL Draft, his refined technique, diverse pass-rush arsenal, and high motor make him a player to watch.
NFL teams looking for a developmental edge rusher with the potential to contribute in passing situations early in his career will likely have Powell-Ryland on their radar. His performance at the upcoming NFL Scouting Combine and any additional pre-draft workouts will be crucial in determining his final draft position. If Powell-Ryland can showcase his athleticism and continue to impress in individual drills, he could see his stock rise even further as the 2025 NFL Draft approaches.
