Mike Green, a defensive end from Marshall University, has emerged as one of the most intriguing prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft. Standing at 6’3″ and weighing 251 pounds, Green’s journey to becoming a top draft prospect is as remarkable as his on-field performance.
2025 NFL Draft Scouting Report: Mike Green, Marshall
Background
Green’s path to the NFL Draft exemplifies the evolution of the modern edge defender. He began his college career at the University of Virginia as a 215-pound linebacker before transforming into one of college football’s most disruptive pass rushers. After a brief hiatus from football in 2022, Green transferred to Marshall, where he quickly established himself as a force to be reckoned with.
On-Field Performance
Green’s 2024 season at Marshall was nothing short of spectacular. He led the FBS with 17 sacks, setting a new Sun Belt Conference record and tying the Marshall single-season sack record. His dominance extended beyond just sacks, as he also led the nation in sack yardage (144), tackles for loss (22.5), TFL yardage (155), and tackles by a defensive lineman (84).
Green’s consistency was particularly impressive, registering a tackle for loss in 12 of 13 games and recording a sack in 10 of 13 games during the 2024 season. This level of production earned him numerous accolades, including Walter Camp 1st Team All-American honors and the Sun Belt Conference Player of the Year award.
Strengths
- Explosiveness: Green’s get-off at the snap is among the best in college football. He explodes off the line, often bypassing offensive tackles en route to the quarterback.
- Flexibility: Exceptional ankle flexion allows Green to bend around the corner of the offensive line, effectively turning offensive tackles and leaving them in poor positions to defend against him.
- Versatility: Despite not having ideal size, Green is disruptive against both the pass and run.
- Motor: Green’s relentlessness amplifies all his qualities as both a pass rusher and run stopper.
- Production: Leading the nation with 17 sacks in 2024 demonstrates Green’s ability to consistently impact games.
Weaknesses
- Size: At 6’3″ and 251 pounds, Green doesn’t have prototypical NFL edge rusher size.
- Arm Length: His 32-inch arms are on the shorter side for his position, which could be a concern against NFL-caliber offensive tackles.
- Rawness: As a former wide receiver and linebacker, Green is still mastering the nuances of defensive line play.
- Strength: He will need to enhance his strength to compete consistently at the NFL level.
NFL Projection
Green’s exceptional burst, flexibility, and production make him an enticing prospect for NFL teams looking to bolster their pass rush. His ability to pressure quarterbacks consistently, combined with his disruptiveness in the run game, projects him as a potential three-down player at the next level.
While his lack of prototypical size may concern some teams, Green’s quickness, explosiveness, and relentless motor should help mitigate any physical disadvantages. His background as a wrestler in high school is evident in his leverage and hand-fighting ability at the point of attack, skills that should translate well to the NFL.
Green’s versatility could make him an attractive option for teams running multiple defensive fronts. He has the potential to play as a stand-up edge rusher in a 3-4 system or as a hand-in-the-dirt defensive end in a 4-3 scheme.
Draft Projection
Based on his exceptional production, athletic traits, and potential for further development, Mike Green is projected to be a first-round selection in the 2025 NFL Draft. NFL.com analyst Daniel Jeremiah currently rates Green as the No. 17 overall prospect in this year’s draft class.
However, it’s important to note that Green’s draft stock could be impacted by off-field concerns. He addressed allegations of sexual assault during the NFL Scouting Combine, denying any wrongdoing. NFL teams will undoubtedly conduct thorough background checks and interviews to assess these issues.
Conclusion
Mike Green represents one of the most dynamic pass-rushing prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft. His exceptional production at Marshall, combined with his explosive athleticism and relentless playing style, make him an intriguing option for teams seeking to upgrade their pass rush.
While he may need to add strength and continue refining his technique, Green’s upside as a disruptive force off the edge is undeniable. If he can address concerns about his size and past off-field issues, Green has the potential to become an impact player at the NFL level, capable of wreaking havoc on opposing quarterbacks for years to come.
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