The 2024 NFL Draft concluded just over a week ago, but the NFL draft season remains active. Many draft analysts and pundits are already looking ahead to next year, crafting early mock drafts and big boards for the 2025 NFL Draft.
One prospect generating significant buzz for potential first-round selection in the 2025 draft is Louisville’s defensive end, Ashton Gillotte. ESPN’s Jordan Reid projected Gillotte to be selected by the Detroit Lions at No. 29 overall, while Fox Sports’ Rob Rang envisioned him joining the Baltimore Ravens at No. 30 overall.
Reid described Gillotte’s game as reminiscent of Missouri’s Darius Robinson, highlighting his reliance on power. Rang praised Gillotte as a skilled edge rusher with impressive burst and bend, despite unconventional physical attributes.
Although Pro Football Focus did not project Gillotte as a first-rounder in their recent mock draft, they currently rank him as the No. 26 overall prospect on their 2025 NFL Draft Big Board.
Gillotte’s potential as a high draft pick stems from his outstanding performance during the 2023 season. Standing at 6-foot-3 and weighing 270 pounds, he emerged as a dominant force on the defensive line, tallying 14.5 tackles for loss, 11.0 sacks, and three forced fumbles in 14 games. His sack total led the ACC and ranked eighth in the FBS, earning him recognition as one of the top defensive linemen in college football.
The Boca Raton, Fla. native received numerous accolades for his junior campaign, including First-Team All-ACC honors and Second-Team All-American nods from various outlets. Heading into his senior season, Gillotte boasts impressive career statistics with 29.5 tackles for loss, 22.0 sacks, and four forced fumbles in 37 games as a Cardinal.
Louisville concluded the 2023 season with a 10-4 overall record, including a berth in the ACC Championship Game under head coach Jeff Brohm. The team’s upcoming season is set to commence against Austin Peay on Saturday, Aug. 31 at L&N Stadium.
