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Sep 1, 2026
Howell is the rookie defender I am most excited to watch. He had 11.5 sacks, won SEC Defensive Player of the Year and has 27 college sacks overall. I have him at a six until he proves it on Sundays. The burst is real; handling NFL tackles and holding up against the run are the tests.
Strengths: Howell has explosive get-off, a nonstop motor and proven finishing production. He can rush from multiple alignments and uses his athleticism in passing lanes.
Weaknesses: He is light for an every-down edge and can be displaced by powerful tackles. His speed-based game must add counters against longer NFL blockers.
