There is a common theme among the top interior defensive linemen at the 2023 East-West Shrine Bowl. That theme is very simple: Elite veteran linemen who know a thing or two about getting after the passer. Get to know the name Viliami Fehoko as he headlines the group.
Top 2023 Shrine Bowl Interior Defensive Linemen NFL Draft Prospects
1) Viliami Fehoko, San Jose State
With four years of starting experience, Viliami Fehoko brings veteran leadership and an elite set of tools to the Shrine Bowl. With the ability to put himself on the map more so than he already has, Fehoko should be the top interior pass rusher to watch during the 1-on-1 events.
Fehoko is violent with his hands and has terrific strength. His versatility to rush the passer from a variety of alignments should pay dividends, as he’ll be one of the most active players on the field.
2) Dante Stills, West Virginia
Another veteran of the sport, Dante Stills has been a staple on the West Virginia defensive line for five seasons. After returning to WVU in 2022, Stills cemented himself as the player we know him to be: strong, dominant, physical, and menacing to opposing quarterbacks.
Stills can also rush from a variety of alignments, but he’s at his best when he’s against centers or moving guards. After five years at West Virginia, Stills can likely move his NFL draft stock up a round or two with an impressive showing in Vegas.
3) Moro Ojomo, Texas
One of two Texas defenders on the interior at the Shrine Bowl, Moro Ojomo finished his Longhorn career with a bang. Putting forth his best effort in his final season in Austin, Ojomo was a terrific, consistent force off the ball for Texas.
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Ojomo has great strength and even better athleticism. He could power past bigger offensive linemen or speed through even the smallest of gaps in the offensive line with his speed.
4) Kobie Turner, Wake Forest
With multiple years of elite production, Kobie Turner is still an underappreciated athlete for the Demon Deacons. Turner put forth his best year yet in 2022, forcing fumbles almost as often as he put pressure on the quarterback.
He’s a terrific all-around force who excels in both run defense, clogging up rushing lanes with his size and length while also maintaining elite pass-rushing skills from various positions on the defensive line.
5) PJ Mustipher, Penn State
Continuing the theme of veteran interior linemen at the Shrine Bowl, PJ Mustipher put forth strong displays over the past five years for the Nittany Lions. During his time at Penn State, Mustipher flashed periods of brilliance at times. Yet, he’ll need to focus on consistency at the Shrine Bowl.
Other Interior Defensive Linemen To Watch
- Keondre Coburn, Texas
- Desjuan Johnson, Toledo
- Taron Vincent, Ohio State
- Devonnsha Maxwell, Chattanooga
- Mason Brooks, Ole Miss
- Jerron Cage, Ohio State
- Ochaun Mathis, Nebraska