Meet Antwaun Powell-Ryland: The Undersized Monster Who Could Terrorize NFL Quarterbacks for the Eagles

The Philadelphia Eagles made a surprising move in the 2025 NFL Draft, selecting Virginia Tech edge rusher Antwaun Powell-Ryland with the 209th overall pick on April 27, 2025. Despite being undersized at 6-foot-2 and 258 pounds, Powell-Ryland’s college stats are jaw-dropping: 16 sacks in 2024 (third in FBS), 25.5 sacks over two seasons, and 19 tackles for loss last year alone. A Portsmouth, Virginia native, he earned first-team All-ACC honors and the 2024 Dudley Award as Virginia’s top FBS player.

Powell-Ryland’s journey started at Florida, where he played three seasons before transferring to Virginia Tech in 2023. His breakout came as a Hokie, where his speed and pass-rush moves—like a devastating bull rush and spin move—made him a quarterback’s nightmare. Two four-sack games in 2024 against Old Dominion and Boston College showcased his dominance. However, his short arms (31 1/8 inches) and struggles against the run raise concerns about his NFL transition.

The Eagles, fresh off a Super Bowl win, already have a crowded edge rusher group with Nolan Smith, Jalyx Hunt, and Josh Uche. Yet, Powell-Ryland’s production makes him a potential steal. Defensive coordinator Vic Fangio sees him as a situational pass rusher, saying, “He’s got the tools to disrupt on third downs.” Fans on X are hyped, with some calling his 16-sack season “unreal for a sixth-rounder.”

Powell-Ryland will need to prove he can handle NFL tackles, but his knack for forcing fumbles (nine over three years) and relentless motor could make him a fan favorite. As the Eagles gear up for the 2025 season, this undersized monster might just become the spark Philly’s defense needs to repeat as champions.