Keldric Faulk

NFL Draft Profile: Keldric Faulk

Position: Defensive End / EDGE | School: Auburn

Class: Junior | Height: 6'6" | Weight: 288 lbs | Archetype: Balance

College Career Summary

Keldric Faulk is the physical centerpiece of Auburn’s defensive front. After a standout freshman season in 2023 where he earned SEC All-Freshman honors, Faulk made a massive jump in his sophomore campaign (2024), establishing himself as one of the most physically imposing ends in the country. In 2025, he entered the season with immense expectations and was named a Team Captain and a semifinalist for the Lott IMPACT Trophy. While his 2025 statistical box score was often suppressed by constant double-teams and unselfish play in Auburn's scheme, his tape reveals a dominant "anchor" who dictates the flow of the run game. He finishes 2025 as one of the most complete and "safe" prospects in the class.

Highlight Career Stats:

• Games Played: 37 (12 in 2025)

• Total Tackles: 114 (29 in 2025)

• Tackles For Loss (TFL): 13.5 (5.0 in 2025)

• Sacks: 5.0 (2.0 in 2025)

• Passes Deflected: 4 (2025)

• Career Recognition: All-American (2025), Lott IMPACT Semifinalist

2025 Season Game-by-Game Grades

Opponent	Stats	Grade	Key Performance Note
@ Baylor	3 Tkl, 1.0 TFL	B+	Physical presence; set a hard edge in the opener.
Ball State	1 Tkl	B	Controlled the line; limited snaps due to blowout.
South Alabama	4 Tkl, 1.0 TFL	A-	Motor on display; chased down a screen for a loss.
@ No. 8 Oklahoma	3 Tkl, 1.0 TFL, 1.0 Sk	A	Statement Game. Dominated 1-on-1s in a hostile environment.
@ No. 7 Texas A&M	2 Tkl, 1 QBH	B	Absorbed double teams; kept LBs clean in a defensive battle.
No. 2 Georgia	4 Tkl, 1 PBU	B+	Technique clinic; held his ground against elite OTs.
No. 25 Missouri	2 Tkl, 1.0 TFL	B	Diagnosed pullers quickly; forced the run inside.
@ Arkansas	3 Tkl, 2 QBH	B+	Relentless pressure; forced Arkansas into early throws.
Kentucky	4 Tkl, 1.0 TFL	B+	Stout run defense; high Mental Toughness in a low-scoring game.
@ No. 13 Vanderbilt	2 Tkl, 1 PBU	B-	Struggled with Vandy's mobile QB; appeared gassed late.
Mercer	0 Stats	C+	Quiet day; rotated out early for developmental players.
No. 11 Alabama	1 Tkl, 1.0 Sk	A-	Clutch Performance. Sacked Milroe on a crucial 3rd down.

Scouting Report

Strengths

• NFL Prototype Frame: At 6'6" and nearly 290 lbs, he looks like he was built in a lab. He has the elite length to lock out blockers and the broad shoulders to carry even more weight if moved inside.

• Run Defense Dominance: He is arguably the best "edge setter" in the 2026 class. He plays with massive hands and exceptional Strength, making it nearly impossible for TEs or smaller OTs to move him.

• Alignment Versatility: He can play as a 4-3 base end, a 3-4 5-technique, or even slide down to 3-tech on passing downs. He is a "chess piece" for modern hybrid defenses.

• Leadership & Character: A team captain who leads by example. His Intangibles are flawless; he is a high-IQ player who credits his teammates and understands unselfish gap discipline.

Weaknesses

• Pass Rush Refinement: While he has speed-to-power, he lacks a deep "tool bag" of counters. If his initial bull-rush or long-arm doesn't win, he can stall out chest-to-chest with the blocker.

• Lateral Agility/Bend: He is a linear athlete. He lacks the elite "ankle flexion" or bend to dip under NFL-caliber tackles and turn the corner tightly.

• Box Score Production: Scouts will be critical of his lower sack numbers (2.0 in 2025). He will need to prove he can be a "finisher" and not just a "disruptor" at the next level.

Scheme Fit: Ideal Base 4-3 DE (Steelers/49ers style) or a 3-4 Defensive End.

NFL Comparison: Cam Jordan (Saints) / DeForest Buckner (Style of play)

Scout’s Final Word & Projection

Intangibles: 20/20 | Physical Tools: 19/20 | Attributes: 17/20 | Athleticism: 16/20 | IQ: 18/20

Final Grade: 90/100

Keldric Faulk is the "safest" defensive prospect in this draft class. While some may chase the high-ceiling speed of smaller edge rushers, Faulk provides a rock-solid floor as a Day 1 starter who will immediately improve a team's run defense. His rare combination of 6'6" height and interior strength allows him to stay on the field for all three downs. Because of his positional value as a DE who can also rush from the interior, he is a lock for the top half of the first round.

Draft Projection: 1st Round (Top 10-15 Pick)