Scouting Profile: J.T. Tuimoloau - EDGE - Ohio State
Sales Pitch: Heavy set EDGE with good length and power. Athletic limitations lower his ceiling as a rusher but has the size and toughness be a functional starter.
*Gold Numbers Indicate NCAA T-25 for 2024*
Scouting Report
J.T. Tuimoloau is a former 5-Star recruit from the state of Washington, where he was the #1 overall recruit in the class of 2020. During his time at Ohio State he was a 3x 1st Team All-Big 10 honoree and started 42 consecutive games. Tuimoloau had his best season in 2024, en route to a National Title with 15 sacks and 51 pressures.
Tuimoloau is a powerfully built end with ideal length and plus play strength. One of the leaders for Ohio State’s defense the past couple of seasons, he is extremely smart and technically sound. He brings the effort and toughness required from a strong side end in all aspects of his game. Tuimoloau primarily wins as a rusher with power. His long arms and heavy hands allow him to get first contact and initial knockback. He displays the ability to collapse the pocket with a bull-rush or long arm move. In the run game, Tuimoloau has the raw strength to take blocks at the point of attack. He shows good use of hands to attach to blockers chest and lock out with his big wingspan on the edge. He is also able to quickly deconstruct blocks and fold back into gaps to make tackles.
Tuimoloau’s game relies mostly on his size and length, because he is a below average athlete. He lacks the acceleration out of his stance to win upfield as a rusher. His heavy set frame lacks the quickness and agility to counter back inside on an island. Tuimoloau’s hands are heavy but slow to get into moves, which limits his ability to get quick wins. He also lacks the bend to turn the corner and close on passers as a speed rusher. He will need to improve his pass rush arsenal if he wants to create consistent pressure at the next level. Tuimoloau is a plus run defender but can struggle to anchor, especially versus double teams, because he lacks flexibility in his knees. When he cannot win with his hands off the snap he lacks the athletic ability to recover.
Tuimoloau profiles best as a strong side end in an even front. His experience, size and length should translate quickly to the next level, especially on early downs. Once thought to be a potential first rounder pick he now projects more as a mid Day-2 selection due to his athletic limitations.