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Defensive linemen often require a broader lens when scouting, as their value is tied to disruption, effort, and assignment discipline rather than raw sack totals alone.
We are going to be covering players who are eligible at every position in the upcoming 2026 draft, and not all prospects project as early selections. Edge defenders who grow into consistent roles within strong defensive systems often earn evaluations based on motor, technique, and role adaptability rather than straight-up athleticism
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For this report, we will be discussing an edge defender from Iowa. Here is my report on Max Llewellyn.
Information
Max Llewellyn
Background Tag: Multi-year Big Ten contributor with rotational-to-starter development
School: Iowa
Conference: Big Ten
Height/Weight: 6-5, 263 lbs
Age when Drafted: 23
Previous School: N/A
All-Star Game: Shrine Bowl
Background
Multi-year contributor within Iowa’s defensive front who developed from a rotational role into a full-time starterStarted all 12 games during the 2025 season at defensive endEarned Honorable Mention All-Big Ten recognition from both coaches and mediaBack-to-back recipient of Iowa’s defensive Hustle Award
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Notable Stats
2025 (Iowa):
Games Played: 12
Tackles: 22
Tackles for Loss: 9
Sacks: 6
Forced Fumbles: 2
Led the Hawkeyes in sacks and forced fumbles during the 2025 season
Notable PFF Numbers from 2025
Overall Grade: 71.8
Pass Rush Grade: 86.8
Run Defense Grade: 54.6
Total Snaps: 507
Pressures: 39
Previous seasons showed a steady climb in snap count and efficiency, with Llewellyn’s pass-rush productivity peaking during his senior season as his role expanded.
Skills
Displays a functional pass-rush plan highlighted by a quick, well-timed spin move
Uses a two-handed rip effectively to disengage when tackles overset on run plays
Shows awareness of passing lanes and adjusts rush angles to disrupt quarterbacks
Comfortable aligning from multiple stances, including two-point, one-hand, and standing
Plays with consistent effort and works through contact to stay involved in the play
Can fight through blocks when engaged sequentially rather than simultaneously
Rush approach can include some wasted movement that slows his ability to finish plays
More effective as a pressure generator than a pure speed-based finisher
Player Summary
Max Llewellyn profiles as a high-effort, assignment-sound edge defender whose value is built on technique, awareness, and consistency rather than explosive athletic traits. His development arc at Iowa reflects a player who earned trust over time and became a dependable presence within a disciplined defensive system.
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From a projection standpoint, Llewellyn does not project as a primary sack artist at the next level. However, his film and PFF data support a player who can generate pressure, disrupt passing lanes, and hold up within a defensive rotation. Overall, he projects as a rotational edge defender with a realistic opportunity to compete for depth snaps and situational pass-rush work at the NFL level.
This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: 2026 NFL Draft scouting report: Max Llewellyn, Edge, Iowa
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