Heading into the 2024 season, Ohio State EDGE defender J.T. Tuimoloau was considered by many experts to be a first-round pick. This year, Tuimoloau has seen his draft stock take a slight step back, perhaps due to the overwhelming talent of Ohio State’s defense as a whole. Tuimoloau is a strong and disciplined EDGE defender who should make an instant impact in the NFL. Here is a scouting report on JT Tuimoloau.
Overview, Film Analysis, and 2025 Scouting Report of Ohio State EDGE Defender JT Tuimoloau
Measurables
Height: 6’5″
Weight: 269 lbs
Player Background
J.T. Tuimoloau was a two-sport athlete at Eastside Catholic School in Sammamish, Washington, where he starred in both football and basketball. He won two football state championships in high school. As a five-star prospect, Tuimoloau was the second-highest-ranked recruit in the 2021 class, according to 247Sports. He headlined an immensely talented recruiting class for Ohio State as the highest-rated defensive prospect to sign with the Buckeyes this century.
During his time at Ohio State, Tuimoloau has seen fairly consistent production. As a sophomore, he was awarded with first-team All-Big Ten honors. Tuimoloau’s most productive season came in 2024 when he totaled 12.5 sacks and 61 total tackles. He was a key piece in Ohio State’s dominant defense, eventually winning the 2024 College Football Playoff National Championship.
Strengths
J.T. Tuimoloau has the ability to play on the edge as either a 3-4 outside linebacker or a traditional 4-3 defensive end. He consistently beats opposing linemen with strength and power. Against the run, Tuimoloau can use his strength to hold the edge or to collapse the line on the ball carrier. He is a consistent tackler, even in the open field. When rushing the passer, Tuimoloau typically relies on his power to push the pocket in on the quarterback. He has strong hands and can use them to redirect blockers. Tuimoloau has a decent spin move at his disposal.
One of J.T. Tuimoloau’s biggest strengths is his discipline in both pass and run defense is his discipline. He is consistent in sticking to his gap assignment. Tuimoloau’s impressive feel for the game allows him to quickly discern between run and pass. He rarely loses contain, and he chooses his moments to cut inside wisely when rushing the passer. Tuimoloau displays a high motor throughout each game.
Weaknesses
While J.T. Tuimoloau is exceptionally strong and impressively athletic, he does not possess the explosiveness that many NFL scouts look for. He is not able to consistently use his burst and speed to get around the edge. Though he has a variety of pass-rushing moves in his arsenal, he relies heavily on his bull rush. This may be too predictable against experienced NFL offensive tackles. Tuimoloau lacks the flexibility to bend around the outside of blockers when rushing the passer. He may be limited in his role at the next level.
Potential Team Fits
NFL Projection
J.T. Tuimoloau is a strong and disciplined edge defender whose primary role in the NFL should be stopping the run. While he lacks the athleticism and bend to project as a highly productive pass rusher on the edge, his strong hands and solid base make him a potential contributor in various schemes. Tuimoloau grades out as a mid-to-late second-round pick, but he could rise based on team need.
Main Image: Adam Cairns – USA Today Sports
