2026 NFL Draft Scouting Report: Caden Curry (EDGE – Ohio State)

FantasyPros will be taking a look at early NFL Draft scouting reports before the Combine in February. Here’s a look at Ohio State EDGE Caden Curry.

2026 NFL Draft Scouting Report: Caden Curry

Caden Curry (EDGE – Ohio State)

6’3″ – 260 lbs.

Background

Four-star recruit who rotated into the defense a bit for his first three seasons while also contributing on special teams and occasionally as a jumbo fullback; over those three years, totaled a combined 43-8.5-4.5. Stepped into a starting role this year and put together a monster season of 66-16.5-11.0.

Positives

Thickly-built edge who really put himself on the map this year with a huge 2025 campaign, often standing up but also playing with his hand in the dirt. Plays the game with a tough, physical temperament that coaches will love. There’s a lot of natural power to his game. Sets a hard edge in the run game, with impressive pop in his hands to jolt blockers on contact. Able to lock out blockers and anchor very well at the point of attack, with good gap discipline in the team’s run fits. Shows good patience on the backside. Gives nonstop effort in pursuit. Thudding power helps him set the tone defensively. Brings a lot of tenacity as a bull-rusher, and is capable of grinding down opposing blockers to shrink the pocket. Bends a smooth arc to the passer, showing impressive flexibility in his ankles; also uses a nice rip move to work his way past opposing tackles as he’s turning the corner. Has impressive balance to keep his rushes on track despite contact/chipping. Spin move/counter has some snap/violence to it. Gets his hands up to contest passing lanes. Makes some limited drops into coverage and is able to disrupt routes with his physicality when pattern-matching.

Negatives

Measurements may be important, as it’s possible his height/length are a bit below some of the other edge defenders in the class. That lack of ideal length can sometimes cause him to get stuck on blocks a little longer than you’d like, missing some opportunities to make stops in the run game; anchors better than he sheds. First step is adequate but isn’t the most explosive, and will probably end up being more of a power-based rusher. Works hard but doesn’t have elite closing burst when quarterbacks flee the pocket. Doesn’t have the ideal athletic profile for a coverage-heavy role.

Summary

A throwback strongside defensive end/elephant linebacker who sets a hard edge, anchors easily, shows good discipline in the run game, and combines a powerful bull rush with underrated flexibility on passing downs. While he can sometimes get stuck on blocks and doesn’t have the quickest first step or closing burst on passing downs, his game seems like it should be able to translate pretty readily to the pro level. Consequently, looks like he has a chance to come off the board some time on the second day.

Projection: Round 3