Can Antwaun Powell-Ryland Continue His Incredible Production with the Commanders?

Hogs Haven takes a look at 2025 NFL Draft prospects that could contribute to the Commanders

Antwaun Powell-Ryland, DE/LB
School: Virginia Tech University | Conference: Atlantic Coast Conference
College Experience: Senior | Draft Age: 23 (Week 1)
Height / Weight: 6’3”/ 258 lbs
Projected Draft Status: 5th - 6th round

Player Comparison: Markus Golden / Harold Landry

College Statistics

Player Overview

Portsmouth-native Antwaun Powell-Ryland was a four-star recruit from Indian River HS (VA) who initially committed to the University of Florida. After struggling to get starting snaps, he transferred to Virginia Tech University where he was able to blossom. His final two seasons, he accumulated a combined 83 tackles, 25.5 sacks, 34 TFL (tackles for losses) and 6 fumbles (all recovered). Powell-Ryland earned ACC honors both seasons and All-American honors in his final season. He was invited to the East-West Shrine Game in 2024.

Antwaun Powell-Ryland provides great production in a less than ideal body frame. He has great take off, he’s able to convert speed to power, and can bend around tackles even through contact. He has a good repertoire of pass rushing moves and plays with plenty of disruptive effort. Even though Antwaun doesn’t have exceptional athletic traits for defensive end, the main issue for Powell-Ryland comes down to his subpar arm length (31 ⅛” in.). While Antwaun was able to play through it in college, scouts are unsure on how effective he could be in the pros at that position. Ryland-Powell is considered an average run defender. Sometimes he plays too tall and gets swallowed by larger tackles and climbing blockers.

Antwaun has made the most of his opportunity at Virginia Tech, putting up great pass rushing production in his final two seasons. He learned how to make the most of his measurables and his play was recognized on the collegiate stage. He is a projected day three selection in a rotational role, likely in designated pass rush situations. A team that loves Antwaun may give him more opportunities to show he is a talented pass rusher who makes the best of his subpar length.

Awards & Recognition:

• Second Team All-ACC (2023)
• First Team All-ACC (2024)
• Third Team All-American (2024)
• 2024 Dudley Award Winner (best FBS/FCS football player in Virginia)
• East-West Shrine Participant (2024)

Metrics

Strengths

• A violent pass rushing technician with an assortment of hand moves.
• Great take-off and keeps tackles on the edge.
• Able to bend even through contact without losing much speed.
• A disruptive tackler that wraps up. Always look to knock the ball out (9 forced fumbles).
• Great speed to power bull rush that drives tackles backwards.
• Great motor and effort.
• Good height/weight frame.

Weaknesses

• Over relies on the spin move.
• Subpar arm length (31 ⅛ “ in.)
• Average run defender can get absorbed by climbing blockers, especially larger tackles.
• Lacks explosive closing speed.

Let’s See His Work

**Antwaun Powell-Ryland’s...