Antwaun Powell-Ryland resurrected his college football career by leaving Florida after the 2022 season and returning to his home state to play for the Virginia Tech Hokies. On Saturday, Powell-Ryland’s dreams came true when the Philadelphia Eagles selected him with the No. 209 overall pick in the 2025 NFL draft.
The Portsmouth, Virginia, native appeared in 27 games for the Gators over three years, mainly in a part-time role. He had 4.5 sacks during his time in Gainesville.
In 2023, APR became a full-time starter for the Hokies and finished with 40 tackles, including 15 for loss, 9.5 sacks and three forced fumbles.
Powell-Ryland chose to return to Blacksburg in 2024, and it proved to be a great decision. He recorded 43 tackles, 19 for loss, 16 sacks, three forced fumbles and three fumble recoveries. He was named first-team All-ACC and also earned All-American honors from some publications.
After playing linebacker at Florida, APR played defensive end for the Hokies. Essentially, Powell-Ryland was an edge rusher at both places. Now, he lands with a team that places a heavy emphasis on the pass rush and is one of four Philadelphia newcomers for 2025, including first-round pick Jihaad Campbell.
Head coach Brent Pry offered the following statement on APR to the NFL:
“The thing I love about APR is his fierce, competitive spirit,” Pry said. “He never backs down from a challenge, in practice or a game. APR is a technician with his hands. He plays with great leverage and pad level and is always around the ball. His exceptional instincts as a pass rusher make him a constant disruptor who excels at making impactful plays.”
Good luck, Antwaun. Hokie Nation is rooting for you.