The current status of the top 10 defensive linemen in the 2025 class.

Top Defensive Linemen in the 2025 Recruiting Class

The focus has shifted from the recently completed 2024 recruiting class to the highly anticipated 2025 class, with Rivals.com national recruiting director Adam Gorney analyzing the recruitments of the top 10 players by position in 2025. In this edition, we delve into the top defensive linemen prospects for the upcoming class.

1. Elijah Griffin
Elijah Griffin, a five-star defensive end from Savannah Christian School in Savannah, Georgia, is currently being heavily pursued by various top programs. Georgia is considered the frontrunner, with Clemson, Alabama, South Carolina, and others also vying for his commitment. The Bulldogs appear to have a strong position in securing Griffin’s commitment due to their prioritization of the in-state standout.

2. Justus Terry
Five-star defensive tackle Justus Terry, who impressed at the Under Armour Atlanta camp, committed to Georgia in January. However, Alabama, Florida State, and other teams are actively trying to sway him. Terry’s brother’s recent flip to Ole Miss has raised speculation about his potential change in commitment.

3. Nathaniel Marshall
Nathaniel Marshall, a four-star defensive end from Oak Park, Illinois, has been preoccupied with basketball season, delaying his recruitment plans. While Illinois and Notre Dame have shown interest, Marshall’s focus on hoops has temporarily halted his decision-making process.

4. Andrew Maddox
After committing to Texas A&M, Andrew Maddox’s brother’s decision to flip to Ole Miss in the 2024 class has put the Rebels in a favorable position for the four-star defensive tackle. Maddox’s upcoming visits are expected to shed more light on his recruitment.

5. DJ Sanders
DJ Sanders, a four-star defensive lineman from Bellville, Texas, is leaning towards Texas A&M. Despite his silence on the matter, the Aggies are widely believed to be the favorites for his commitment.

6. Iose Epenesa
Iose Epenesa, a four-star from Edwardsville, Illinois, remains indecisive about his college choice. While Iowa and Kentucky are potential destinations, Epenesa’s guarded approach to recruitment makes it difficult to predict his final decision.

7. Zion Grady
Zion Grady, a four-star defensive end from Enterprise, Alabama, initially committed to Alabama but reconsidered following Nick Saban’s retirement. Georgia emerges as a strong contender for Grady’s commitment amidst renewed interest from several programs.

8. Zahir Mathis
Zahir Mathis, a four-star defensive end from Philadelphia, committed to Ohio State in January. Barring unforeseen circumstances, Mathis is expected to honor his commitment to the Buckeyes.

9. Bryce Davis
Bryce Davis, a four-star defensive lineman from Greensboro, NC, is torn between Georgia and Clemson, with North Carolina, Miami, and Ohio State still in contention for his commitment.

10. Jared Smith
Jared Smith from Alabaster, Alabama, is a highly sought-after prospect, with Georgia, Alabama, Auburn, Tennessee, and South Carolina vying for his commitment. The battle for Smith’s services is expected to intensify as the recruiting process unfolds.

As the 2025 recruiting cycle progresses, the recruitment of these top defensive linemen will undoubtedly draw significant attention from college football fans and analysts alike. Stay tuned for more updates on their impending decisions.