As the college football season unfolds, the spotlight often gravitates towards the offensive playmakers: quarterbacks slinging passes, running backs dashing through defensive lines, and wide receivers making spectacular catches. However, defense is the backbone of any successful team, and the 2024 NFL season is no exception. This year, several standout defenders are primed for breakout performances and could solidify their status as future NFL prospects. Below, we showcase the Top 10 Defensive Players to Watch in NFL 2024 to keep an eye on this season, particularly within the competitive realm of the SEC.
1. Harold Perkins Jr., EDGE, LSU

Harold Perkins Jr. made an indelible mark during his freshman season at LSU, earning recognition as one of the top true freshman defenders in the program’s storied history. He showcased his incredible athleticism and versatility by recording 7.5 sacks in 2022. His ability to line up at various positions from stack linebacker to nickelback showcases his unique skill set. In 2023, Perkins continued to impress, finishing with 5.5 sacks while consistently being a disruptive force on the edge. As a sophomore, Perkins is expected to take his game to new heights, significantly impacting opposing offenses throughout the season. His strike rate and performance made his place on your Top 10 Defensive Players to Watch in NFL 2024 list.
2. Deone Walker, DT, Kentucky

A key figure on Kentucky’s defense, Deone Walker possesses an ideal blend of size, strength, and quickness that label him as a dominant interior defensive lineman. In 2023, Walker delivered an outstanding performance, racking up 7.5 sacks and 12.5 tackles for loss. His ability to control the line of scrimmage makes him a crucial asset for the Wildcats. If he can replicate his successful production this season, Walker has a strong chance of emerging as the first defensive tackle drafted in the 2025 NFL Draft, making him a player to watch closely.
3. Mykel Williams, EDGE, Georgia

When discussing potential top overall picks in the upcoming NFL Draft, Mykel Williams from Georgia is a name that stands out. Known for his explosive athleticism, Williams totaled 4.5 sacks in back-to-back seasons despite limited playing time. His combination of size and skill makes him a prototypical edge rusher with the potential to create chaos in opposing backfields. As he continues to develop and receive more opportunities at Georgia, keep a close eye on Williams as he looks to solidify himself as a premier defensive talent.
4. Malaki Starks, SAF, Georgia

Malaki Starks is poised to make a significant impact this season as he aims to become the top safety in the 2025 NFL Draft class. Notably, there have been no safeties selected in the first round in consecutive drafts, but Starks has the potential to break that trend. With his high-level instincts and ball-hawking abilities, Starks recorded 19 pass breakups and five interceptions over the past two seasons. If he can maintain this trajectory, he will undoubtedly be a player to watch as the season progresses.
5. Nic Scourton, EDGE, Texas A&M

Transferring to Texas A&M from Purdue, Nic Scourton enters the SEC with high expectations. Last season, Scourton was a formidable presence for the Boilermakers, finishing with 10 sacks and 15 tackles for loss. His ability to pressure quarterbacks could translate well to the heightened competition in the SEC. If Scourton can adapt quickly and maintain his performance level, he is likely to generate significant NFL interest come draft day.
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6. Walter Nolen, DT, Ole Miss

Walter Nolen, once a highly-rated prospect at Texas A&M, brings athleticism and strength to the defensive tackle position. In 2023, he demonstrated his ability to disrupt plays with 8.5 tackles for loss. Now at Ole Miss, Nolen aims to continue his development as a dynamic defensive force capable of taking over games from the interior. His combination of quickness and size makes him a player who can create havoc in opposing backfields and earn himself a notable spot in the upcoming draft.
7. James Pearce Jr., EDGE, Tennessee

James Pearce Jr. is another edge rusher making headlines as a potential top overall pick. His explosive speed and agility allowed him to record 10 sacks and 14.5 tackles last season for Tennessee. Pearce Jr. brings a relentless playing style combined with fluid change-of-direction abilities that make him a nightmare for opposing offensive linemen. If he can build on his previous success, expect Pearce to play a crucial role in Tennessee’s defensive efforts this season.
8. Danny Stutsman, LB, Oklahoma

For Oklahoma, Danny Stutsman exemplifies the modern linebacker. His ability to excel in various aspects of the game, including run stopping and pass coverage, is instrumental to the Sooners’ defensive scheme. Last season, Stutsman amassed 16 tackles for loss, ranking him among the top performers nationally. With 230 total tackles in the previous two campaigns, he has established himself as a tackling machine with three-down capability. As he continues to fine-tune his craft, Stutsman is on our Top 10 Defensive Players to Watch in NFL 2024 list.
9. Landon Jackson, EDGE, Arkansas

After contemplating a declaration for the 2024 draft, Landon Jackson made the wise decision to return to Arkansas for another season. Jackson had an impressive first-team All-SEC campaign in which he registered 6.5 sacks. As a player with a violent temperament and sound technique, he excels in run defense while also posing a significant threat as a pass rusher. Keep an eye on how Jackson develops this season and the impact he has on Arkansas’ defensive success.
10. Princely Umanmielen, EDGE, Ole Miss

Princely Umanmielen’s transfer to Ole Miss from Florida has garnered attention, particularly given his stellar performances with the Gators. Over the past two seasons, Umanmielen recorded a total of 11.5 sacks and 21 tackles for loss. Renowned for his first-step quickness and natural athleticism, Umanmielen has the potential to become a consistently productive edge defender at the next level. If he can transition smoothly within a new system, expect his name to rise on NFL draft boards.
Conclusion
With the SEC being the most competitive conference in college football, the 2024 season promises to showcase some of the best defensive talents in the country. From edge rushers to powerful interior linemen and dynamic linebackers, the players highlighted above exemplify the level of talent found in college football today. As they aim to make their mark this season, they will not only play integral roles for their respective teams but also create substantial intrigue for NFL scouts preparing for the 2025 draft. Keep a close eye on these defenders as they strive for greatness on the collegiate stage.