Latest news with #Tuimoloau
USA Today
07-05-2025
- Sport
- USA Today
ESPN insider provides NFL comp for Indianapolis Colts' second-round pick JT Tuimoloau
ESPN insider provides NFL comp for Indianapolis Colts' second-round pick JT Tuimoloau Indianapolis Colts' second-round pick JT Tuimoloau has been compared to this former Bengals' pass rusher says one NFL insider. After speaking with executives, scouts, and coaches, ESPN's Jeremy Fowler emptied his post-NFL draft notebook, and included was an NFL comp for Indianapolis Colts' second-round pick JT Tuimoloau. In Fowler's conversations, one comparison that he continues to hear when discussing Tuimoloau is now retired Cincinnati Bengals' defensive end Sam Hubbard. "Hubbard is a Tuimoloau comp I've heard in my talks -- a big, strong, explosive guy at 6-foot-5 and 269 pounds," Fowler wrote. "(Hubbard is the same height, but four pounds lighter at 265.) Tuimoloau's 23.5 career sacks suggest he'll aid a Colts defense that ranked 31st in pressure rate last season (26.2%)." Hubbard brought a well-rounded skill set to that Bengals defense for a number of years. He routinely graded out well against the run by PFF's metrics, and from 2019 through 2023, he recorded at least 30 pressures each year, including two seasons with at least 60 pressures and double-digit sacks. Tuimoloau comes to the NFL after being an impactful three-down presence at Ohio State, similarly to what Hubbard had done with the Bengals. Tuimoloau finished the 2024 season ranked 14th among edge defenders in pressures and sixth in run defense grade. Another similarity between the two is that they both have the ability to play inside if needed during obvious passing situations. As Fowler put it, the addition of Tuimoloau was a "comfort-zone pick" for new defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo, who was Hubbard's defensive coordinator from 2019 through 2024. With there seemingly being quite a bit of overlap between Hubbard and Tuimoloau's games, Anarumo's defensive scheme should help maximize Tuimoloau's abilities.
USA Today
04-05-2025
- Sport
- USA Today
5 Things to know about Indianapolis Colts' second-round pick JT Tuimoloau
5 Things to know about Indianapolis Colts' second-round pick JT Tuimoloau Here are five things to know about Tuimoloau, the Indianapolis Colts' 2025 second-round pick: In the second round of the 2025 NFL draft, the Indianapolis Colts selected Ohio State defensive end JT Tuimoloau, who can step in and become an immediate member of the defensive line rotation. The addition of Tuimoloau bolsters the depth at this key position, and he brings a well-rounded skill set to the defensive end group as well. Here are five things to know about Tuimoloau, the Colts' 2025 second-round pick: A three-down defender Whether it was on first, second, or third down, whether it was against the run or the pass, Tuimoloau was able to make an impact at Ohio State. As a pass rusher, Tuimoloau's production steadily increased during his college career, which included a career-high 51 pressures in 2024. For some context, among all defensive ends last season, that ranked as the 14th most, per PFF. In addition to his contributions as a pass rusher, Tuimoloau was also stout against the run, ranking sixth at his position group in PFF's run defense grade. Regardless of the down-and-distance or situation at hand, Tuimoloau is someone you can have on the field. 'A big guy who's a real threat off the edge and can win in multiple ways," area scout Mike Lacy said via the Indy Star. "What you see from J.T., he knows he's getting extra attention, he's used to it. You just kind of see a guy strain a little bit harder, fight a little bit harder, be a little more creative, be a little more savvy to beat that extra attention you're getting.' A big impact in some big games Both GM Chris Ballard and area scout Mike Lacy mentioned Tuimoloau's performance during Ohio State's run to a National Championship. In that four-game stretch against Tennessee, Oregon, Texas, and Notre Dame, Tuimoloau finished with 20 pressures and six sacks. Having big game experience is one thing, but being able to come through consistently in those pivotal moments is a whole different quality to have. "The thing about him that stands out to me," Lacy said, "is he played his best ball down the stretch when they needed him the most in their biggest games." Tuimoloau adds some versatility Tuimoloau doesn't have the size that Dayo Odeyingbo does, but during his time at Ohio State, he did take some snaps inside during obvious passing situations, and that's a skill set that the Colts believe could be utilized at the NFL level. 'He's more outside, but they kicked him inside on 3rd down at Ohio State,' said Ballard. 'I felt really fortunate to get him. I think everyone would tell you that in our (draft) room.' One potential role for Tuimoloau could include lining up inside during those long down-and-distance situations. This could then allow the Colts to get him, Laiatu Latu, Kwity Paye, and DeForest Buckner all on the field together. That ability to play multiple gaps is an important element in Lou Anarumo's scheme. JT Tuimoloau's athletic testing numbers What the scouting report says Lance Zierlein: "Rugged edge defender with the size, length and toughness to play up or down in hybrid fronts. Tuimoloau plays to his size. His game revolves around power and force. He uses well-timed strikes and good length to stay separated and shed the block cleanly. He plays hard but has average pursuit quickness outside the box and trouble holding his ground against drive blockers in-line. Tuimoloau's power rush helped him tear through the expanded College Football Playoff, with 6.5 sacks over four games, but his rush plan and hand work need refinement to maintain the momentum he built as a rusher during the 2024 season. He's unlikely to become a star but his traits and demeanor fit the profile of a good NFL starter."
USA Today
03-05-2025
- Sport
- USA Today
What about DE JT Tuimoloau stood out to Indianapolis Colts in 2025 NFL draft?
What about DE JT Tuimoloau stood out to Indianapolis Colts in 2025 NFL draft? What was it about JT Tuimoloau's game that stood out to the Indianapolis Colts during the 2025 NFL draft? GM Chris Ballard said after Day 2 of the 2025 NFL draft that he felt "really fortunate" to land defensive end JT Tuimoloau in the second round. So what was it about Tuimoloau's game that drew the Indianapolis Colts to him? 'He's got some unique qualities," Ballard said via Stampede Blue. "He's a big guy. He's a really good athlete. He can bend. He knows how to rush. He's got good length. Now we're excited to get him.' An experienced player with over 2,100 career snaps, Tuimoloau was a key figure in the Ohio State defense over the last three years. During that span, his pass rush production steadily increased as he went from 32 pressures, according to PFF, to 37, to a career-high 51 in 2024, which also ranked as the 14th-most in all of college football at his position group. Beyond his contributions as a pass rusher, Tuimoloau was a three-down presence along the Ohio State defensive front, ranking sixth among edge rushers in PFF's run defense grade. 'A big guy who's a real threat off the edge and can win in multiple ways," area scout Mike Lacy said via the Indy Star. "What you see from J.T., he knows he's getting extra attention, he's used to it. You just kind of see a guy strain a little bit harder, fight a little bit harder, be a little more creative, be a little more savvy to beat that extra attention you're getting.' Along with Tuimoloau's overall body of work that he put together, his performance in the biggest games of the year during the College Football Playoffs caught the Colts' attention as well. In that four-game stretch against Tennessee, Oregon, Texas, and Notre Dame, Tuimoloau finished with 20 pressures and six sacks. Tuimoloau will become an immediate member of the Colts' defensive end rotation. He could potentially pair up with Kwity Paye on early downs with Laiatu Latu and then take over during passing situations. Tuimoloau also offers some flexibility to move him inside if needed on third downs. '[He's] kind of like (Laiatu) Latu [was] a year ago," Ballard added. "He's got a little more power than Latu had, but when they come into our league, there's still a developmental curve. I mean there just is, but he's got a good foundation to sure move forward with.'
USA Today
29-04-2025
- Sport
- USA Today
Breaking down Indianapolis Colts' 2025 second round pick: DE JT Tuimoloau
Breaking down Indianapolis Colts' 2025 second round pick: DE JT Tuimoloau In the second round of the 2025 NFL draft, the Indianapolis Colts selected Ohio State defensive end JT Tuimoloau. Let's break it down. In the second round of the 2025 NFL draft, the Indianapolis Colts selected Ohio State defensive end JT Tuimoloau. Let's break down the pick, and if you missed our other recaps, you can find them below. Tyler Warren JT Tuimoloau's profile Height: 6-042 Weight: 265 Arm length: 33.75" Age: 21 College profile Breaking down the Indianapolis Colts' pick Without Dayo Odeyingbo, the Colts' defensive end depth needed a boost, which Tuimoloau can provide right away. This was also likely a selection by GM Chris Ballard, who had his eyes on 2026 as well, when Kwity Paye, Tyquan Lewis, and Samson Ebukam are all set to be free agents. Tuimoloau brings a well-rounded and three-down presence to the Colts' defense. Against both the run and the pass last season, he was highly effective. Among the defensive end position group in 2024, Tuimoloau ranked 14th in total pressures, and he was also sixth in PFF's run defense grade. Tuimoloau should instantly carve out a role in the Colts' defensive end rotation, and he has the skill set to move inside during obvious passing situations, similarly to what we had seen in previous years with Odeyingbo. I don't think it's too far-fetched of a scenario where at some point this season, Tuimoloau is the second-most productive defensive end for the Colts, along with Laiatu Latu. JT Tuimoloau's scouting report Lance Zierlein: "Rugged edge defender with the size, length and toughness to play up or down in hybrid fronts. Tuimoloau plays to his size. His game revolves around power and force. He uses well-timed strikes and good length to stay separated and shed the block cleanly. He plays hard but has average pursuit quickness outside the box and trouble holding his ground against drive blockers in-line. Tuimoloau's power rush helped him tear through the expanded College Football Playoff, with 6.5 sacks over four games, but his rush plan and hand work need refinement to maintain the momentum he built as a rusher during the 2024 season. He's unlikely to become a star but his traits and demeanor fit the profile of a good NFL starter." They said it Mike Lacy, area scout: 'Tough, durable kid," Lacy said via the Indy Star. "Big dude, plays hard, I think about him playing his best ball down the stretch in their biggest games. … I think those guys knew what was at stake, I think they knew what they were capable of doing, going on a championship run and everybody just kind of turned it up a notch. 'A big guy who's a real threat off the edge and can win in multiple ways. What you see from J.T., he knows he's getting extra attention, he's used to it. You just kind of see a guy strain a little bit harder, fight a little bit harder, be a little more creative, be a little more savvy to beat that extra attention you're getting.' JT Tuimoloau's athletic profile
Indianapolis Star
27-04-2025
- Sport
- Indianapolis Star
Indianapolis Colts draft grades: What Mel Kiper Jr. thinks of the Colts' picks in 2025
The Indianapolis Colts came away from the 2025 NFL Draft with eight picks, one more than their original allotment. They made just one trade, moving down in the fourth round and gaining an extra pick in the sixth. Every team loves their picks on draft weekend, though no one truly knows whether a team succeeded for three years. But that doesn't stop the flood of instant grades, and here's what national experts think of the Colts' haul. If you can't get enough Colts coverage, Nate Atkins and Joel A. Erickson have a mountain of it. And sign up for IndyStar's Colts newsletter. Indianapolis Colts 2025 NFL Draft picks Round 1, 14th overall: Tyler Warren, TE, Penn State Round 2, 45th: J.T. Tuimoloau, edge, Ohio State Round 3, 80th: Justin Walley, CB, Minnesota Round 4, 127th: Jalen Travis, T, Iowa State Round 5, 151st: D.J. Giddens, RB, Kansas State Round 6, 189th: Riley Leonard, QB, Notre Dame Round 6, 190th: Tim Smith, DT, Alabama : Hunter Wohler, S, Wisconsin Indianapolis Colts draft grades: What Mel Kiper Jr. thinks of the Colts' picks Pro Football Focus: B+ Warren: Tyler Warren is everything NFL offenses look for at tight end: a do-it-all player with day-one impact in the run and pass games. The Penn State standout earned an impressive 93.4 PFF receiving grade this past season with incredible efficiency, having averaged 2.78 yards per route run (97th percentile). Anthony Richardson now has a full complement of playmakers to roll with into the 2025 campaign. Tuimoloau: After losing Dayo Odeyingbo in free agency, the Colts had a void to fill off the edge. Tuimoloau profiles as a high-floor defender with strong leg drive and a fearless approach to playing the run. His 87.3 PFF run-defense grade will fit in well with a Colts defense that produced the third-highest team run-defense grade (75.8) in the NFL last season. Walley: Walley brings good experience and profiles best as a zone-coverage cornerback. He forced 10 incompletions in 2024 and posted a 71.3 PFF coverage grade. He also allowed just one touchdown and a 57.8 passer rating when targeted. Travis: Travis is a huge offensive tackle at 6-foot-8 and 339 pounds. He was the starting left tackle for Iowa State last season after transferring from Princeton. He was excellent in pass protection, never allowing three or more pressures, but he earned only a 58.5 run-blocking grade. He will compete for the backup spot behind established veterans Bernhard Raimann and Braden Smith. Giddens: Giddens was the No. 96-ranked player on the PFF Big Board. He posted a PFF rushing grade of 84.0 or higher in each of the past two seasons and a grade above 80.0 on both zone and gap runs in 2024. He will look to carve out a role behind Jonathan Taylor in the Colts' backfield. Leonard: Leonard will need to improve his throw-to-throw consistency to develop into an NFL starter, but he does provide value as a dual threat and earned a 91.6 deep PFF passing grade in 2024. Smith: Smith will provide depth and versatility for the Colts' defensive line. His lack of explosion suggests he won't be a plus pass rusher, as his pass-rush win rate was never above 8.0% in a season. Wohler: Wohler boasted an elite 90.0 coverage grade over the past two seasons. He is a sound tackler, with three straight seasons of 77.0-plus PFF tackling grades. Wohler also logged 452 career special teams snaps. Chad Reuter, A Warren and Tuimoloau were two of my favorite picks early in the draft. Their combination of strength and playmaking ability will help the franchise on both sides of the ball. Walley should provide depth in the secondary. Travis is a powerful blocker who could step up, with both starters (Bernhard Raimann and Braden Smith) entering a contract year. Giddens was the reserve back they needed behind Jonathan Taylor. I projected Leonard as a Day 3 Colts pick because he's a gamer who looks to improve his consistency as a passer. Chris Trapasso, CBS Sports: C+ I wasn't as enamored with Tyler Warren as the masses, although I do acknowledge he could become the focal point of the offense in Indy like he was at Penn State. Tuimoloau raises the floor of the defensive end position, and Travis has All-Pro upside at tackle. He's enormous, athletic and balanced. Giddens will be a fun complement to Jonathan Taylor because of his lateral cutting skill. Those were my favorite picks from the Colts. Walley went early for my liking, and I didn't see an NFL future for Riley Leonard, although the quarterback spot is far from secured on this team. The middle of this class was better than the beginning and the end. Matt Verderame, Sports Illustrated: B The Colts had to be thrilled in the first round when Warren fell to them at No. 14. Coming out of Penn State, he gives Indianapolis someone who caught 104 passes for 1,233 yards last season, and slots in as an immediate weapon alongside receivers Michael Pittman Jr. and Alec Pierce. In the second round, Tuimoloau is a nice value as well, as some thought he was a first-round talent entering the 2024 campaign. He should get plenty of snaps opposite last year's first-rounder in Laiatu Latu. Mel Kiper Jr., ESPN: B The Colts have to figure out if Anthony Richardson (or even Daniel Jones) is their true franchise quarterback this season. But it's really hard to do that if the quarterback's supporting cast isn't up to snuff. Step 1 is getting playmakers. Tight end Tyler Warren will move all over this offense and dominate no matter where offensive coordinator Jim Bob Cooter puts him. Penn State used him as a traditional in-line tight end, an H-back, a fullback, out of the slot and lined up out wide. The Colts' tight end room, led by Kylen Granson, managed 39 catches (last) for 467 yards (second to last) and two TDs (tied for second to last) in 2024. But drafting Warren should change everything there. He had 700 receiving yards after the catch last season. Suddenly, Richardson has a reliable outlet who can haul in anything and stretch the seams, and Indy didn't have to move up to get my No. 7 prospect. It was really the best-case scenario for GM Chris Ballard on Thursday. Step 2 is addressing the protection. Remember, the Colts lost Will Fries and Ryan Kelly in free agency. They were 25th in pass block win rate last season (56.4%), and Richardson was one of the worst QBs in the NFL when pressured (20.2 QBR, 24th in the league). I think they fell a little short here. They waited until Day 3 and reached a bit even at that point in the draft, taking offensive tackle Jalen Travis at No. 127. I would have loved guard Marcus Mbow in that spot. Two more picks to call out. JT Tuimoloau had 12 sacks last season, and the Colts ranked 31st in the NFL with a 26.2% pressure rate in 2024. He has a lot of upside as a second-rounder. And running back DJ Giddens will be a good backup to Jonathan Taylor. Giddens broke 1,200 rushing yards in each of the past two seasons.
