Malachi Lawrence, a 6-foot-4, 253-pound edge defender from UCF, is generating significant interest in the lead-up to the NFL draft. With 16 teams setting up visits, Lawrence is a top prospect who could be a first- or second-round pick. The Colts, 49ers, and Seahawks are among those showing interest, with the Colts in particular lacking a first-round pick but needing a pass rusher. The 49ers, with the fewest sacks in the league last season, are also a strong candidate. The Seahawks, despite their Super Bowl win, are considering an edge defender early in the draft due to the loss of Boye Mafe and the uncertain future of Demarcus Lawrence.
Lawrence's college career took off in 2023, where he registered 10.5 tackles for loss and 7.5 sacks. While his production dropped slightly in 2024, he still earned a first-team All-Big 12 selection. Lawrence's performance at the Combine, including a 4.52-second 40-yard dash, further boosted his stock. Experts like Dane Brugler and Daniel Jeremiah consider him a top-50 prospect.
However, Lawrence's age is a concern, as he will turn 24 before the season starts. This is similar to Miami's Akheem Mesidor, who is also in a similar boat. Despite this, the Colts, 49ers, and Seahawks have all shown interest, with the Colts lacking a first-round pick but needing a pass rusher. The 49ers, with the fewest sacks in the league last season, are also a strong candidate.
The Seahawks, despite their Super Bowl win, are considering an edge defender early in the draft due to the loss of Boye Mafe and the uncertain future of Demarcus Lawrence. The team has not brought in a replacement for Mafe, and the clock is ticking on Lawrence's career. With just four picks, including Nos. 32 and 64 in the first two rounds, the Seahawks may be eager to make a notable investment along the edge.
In conclusion, Malachi Lawrence is a top prospect who is generating significant interest from NFL teams. With his impressive performance on the field and at the Combine, he is a strong candidate for a first- or second-round pick. The Colts, 49ers, and Seahawks are among those showing interest, with the Colts and 49ers in particular lacking a first-round pick but needing a pass rusher. The Seahawks, despite their Super Bowl win, are considering an edge defender early in the draft due to the loss of Boye Mafe and the uncertain future of Demarcus Lawrence.
