The Best Interior Defensive Linemen in the NFL for 2025: Analysis by Alofoke Deportes
As the 2025 NFL training camps approach, league experts share their analyses. Alofoke Deportes presents a ranking of the top 10 players in each position, from quarterbacks to cornerbacks. This is the sixth year of these rankings, and as usual, some positions have experienced significant changes. The ranking process involves league executives, coaches, and scouts, who vote for the best players in each position. The results are compiled and ranked according to votes, composite average, and interviews, with the help of NFL analyst from Alofoke Deportes, Matt Bowen. More than 70 voters participated in the selection of players in various positions.Each section includes quotes and opinions from voters about each player, including honorable mentions. The goal is to identify the best players for the 2025 season, without considering long-term projections or career achievements.
Top 10 Interior Defensive Linemen in the NFL
- 1. Dexter Lawrence II, New York Giants
- 2. Chris Jones, Kansas City Chiefs
- 3. Jalen Carter, Philadelphia Eagles
- 4. Jeffery Simmons, Tennessee Titans
- 5. Quinnen Williams, New York Jets
- 6. Leonard Williams, Seattle Seahawks
- 7. Nnamdi Madubuike, Baltimore Ravens
- 8. DeForest Buckner, Indianapolis Colts
- 9. Vita Vea, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
- 10. Cameron Heyward, Pittsburgh Steelers
Detailed Analysis of Featured Players
1. Dexter Lawrence II, New York Giants: Lawrence demonstrated exceptional performance in 2024, improving his game and recording nine sacks. His ability to dominate the run and pressure the quarterback positions him as one of the best in his position. An NFL personnel director commented: “He should have been the Defensive Player of the Year.”
“He should have been the Defensive Player of the Year with the season he had. He’s a true zero-technique nose who can occupy doubles and neutralize the run game. I think he took his pass rush to a different level, and I think he would have had double-digit sacks if (Brian) Burns and (Kayvon) Thibodeaux had stayed healthy. A true three-down game wrecker who needs attention on every play”.
NFL Personnel Director
2. Chris Jones, Kansas City Chiefs: Although Jones didn’t lead the voting as in 2024, he remains one of the best. His combination of size, strength, and versatility makes him stand out. An NFC scout said: “When it comes to the ability to overwhelm inside and win on third down and in the two-minute drill, he’s still the best.”
3. Jalen Carter, Philadelphia Eagles: Carter has shown great potential and disruptiveness. A veteran NFL coach commented: “Young player with elite tools, elite instincts, and the ability to change the game.”
4. Jeffery Simmons, Tennessee Titans: Simmons continues to be a dominant player, especially in run defense. However, some evaluators noted a decrease in his quarterback sack production last season.5. Quinnen Williams, New York Jets: Williams is a consistent and talented player. An NFL staff member said: “True three-down player: talented interior rusher who is fully capable against the run.”
6. Leonard Williams, Seattle Seahawks: Williams had a standout season, demonstrating his potential. A veteran NFL coach said: “His game finally matched his skills last season. He was dominant”.
7. Nnamdi Madubuike, Baltimore Ravens: Madubuike had a high-performing season in 2023, but his performance decreased in 2024. An AFC executive commented: “He’s still a quality player, but he wasn’t as dominant as the sack numbers [from 2023] suggested.”
8. DeForest Buckner, Indianapolis Colts: Buckner remains a consistent and underrated player. An AFC personnel executive said: “The most underrated defensive player in the league.”
9. Vita Vea, Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Vea is known for his strength and ability to stop the run. A veteran NFL assistant coach said: “He’s the kind of guy where if you don’t have him [on your team] for a while, playing defense is much harder. A true difference-maker”.
10. Cameron Heyward, Pittsburgh Steelers: Heyward had an excellent performance at 35, demonstrating his experience and skill. An AFC executive said: “He was healthier. He overcame the persistent injuries of 2023 and returned to perform according to his standard. He has been good for a long time”.
