Continuing my series on players emerging from the shadows in 2023, let’s take a look at some edge rushers.
1. Dallas Turner, Alabama
Overshadowed by: Will Anderson, Nolan Smith
Another year, another athletic freak on the edge for the Crimson Tide. Turner had some huge moments as a true freshman in 2021 before having an adequate but not spectacular sophomore campaign. The former five-star has all the ability in the world and, with a big junior year, could be another high first round pick for the Tide.
2. Jared Verse, Florida State
Overshadowed by: Myles Murphy
Verse was outstanding in his first year at the FBS level after transferring to FSU from Albany, finishing 2022 with 9 sacks and 17 TFL. It was a bit of a surprise to see him return to Tallahassee, considering his draft stock was on the rise, but the ‘Noles have to be very happy about that. His return is one of the reasons that they’re a preseason national title dark horse.
3. JT Tuimoloau, Ohio State
Overshadowed by: Nick Herbig, Mike Morris
You could put Chop Robinson on here too, but we’ve seen just how dominant Tuimoloau can be. The former five-star is now a leader on the Buckeyes’ defense in his third year in Columbus and has the potential to be an All-American in 2023.
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4. Collin Oliver, Oklahoma State
Overshadowed by: Will McDonald, Felix Anudike-Uzomah, Tyree Wilson
There was a lot of pass rushing talent in the Big XII last season, and most of those guys are now off to the draft. But one player who flew under the radar to most people outside of the conference’s footprint is Oliver, who finished second-team all-conference as a sophomore. An explosive edge rusher, Oliver may be a bit undersized, but more than makes up for it with his quickness.
