Here are five things to know about Tuimoloau, the Indianapolis Colts’ 2025 second-round pick:
In the second round of the 2025 NFL draft, the Indianapolis Colts selected Ohio State defensive end JT Tuimoloau, who can step in and become an immediate member of the defensive line rotation.
The addition of Tuimoloau bolsters the depth at this key position, and he brings a well-rounded skill set to the defensive end group as well.
Here are five things to know about Tuimoloau, the Colts’ 2025 second-round pick:
A three-down defender
Whether it was on first, second, or third down, whether it was against the run or the pass, Tuimoloau was able to make an impact at Ohio State. As a pass rusher, Tuimoloau’s production steadily increased during his college career, which included a career-high 51 pressures in 2024. For some context, among all defensive ends last season, that ranked as the 14th most, per PFF.
In addition to his contributions as a pass rusher, Tuimoloau was also stout against the run, ranking sixth at his position group in PFF’s run defense grade. Regardless of the down-and-distance or situation at hand, Tuimoloau is someone you can have on the field.
“A big guy who’s a real threat off the edge and can win in multiple ways,” area scout Mike Lacy said via the Indy Star. “What you see from J.T., he knows he’s getting extra attention, he’s used to it. You just kind of see a guy strain a little bit harder, fight a little bit harder, be a little more creative, be a little more savvy to beat that extra attention you’re getting.”
A big impact in some big games
Both GM Chris Ballard and area scout Mike Lacy mentioned Tuimoloau’s performance during Ohio State’s run to a National Championship. In that four-game stretch against Tennessee, Oregon, Texas, and Notre Dame, Tuimoloau finished with 20 pressures and six sacks.
Having big game experience is one thing, but being able to come through consistently in those pivotal moments is a whole different quality to have.
“The thing about him that stands out to me,” Lacy said, “is he played his best ball down the stretch when they needed him the most in their biggest games.”
Tuimoloau adds some versatility
Tuimoloau doesn’t have the size that Dayo Odeyingbo does, but during his time at Ohio State, he did take some snaps inside during obvious passing situations, and that’s a skill set that the Colts believe could be utilized at the NFL level.
“He’s more outside, but they kicked him inside on 3rd down at Ohio State,” said Ballard. “I felt really fortunate to get him. I think everyone would tell you that in our (draft) room.”
One potential role for Tuimoloau could include lining up inside during those long down-and-distance situations. This could then allow the Colts to get him, Laiatu Latu, Kwity Paye, and DeForest Buckner all on the field together. That ability to play multiple gaps is an important element in Lou Anarumo’s scheme.
JT Tuimoloau’s athletic testing numbers
What the scouting report says
Lance Zierlein: “Rugged edge defender with the size, length and toughness to play up or down in hybrid fronts. Tuimoloau plays to his size. His game revolves around power and force. He uses well-timed strikes and good length to stay separated and shed the block cleanly. He plays hard but has average pursuit quickness outside the box and trouble holding his ground against drive blockers in-line. Tuimoloau’s power rush helped him tear through the expanded College Football Playoff, with 6.5 sacks over four games, but his rush plan and hand work need refinement to maintain the momentum he built as a rusher during the 2024 season. He’s unlikely to become a star but his traits and demeanor fit the profile of a good NFL starter.”
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