Feb. 18, 2026, 12:07 a.m. ET
It is never too early to evaluate edge rushers for the 2026 NFL Draft. General manager Jason Licht has consistently invested in defensive line depth, and Todd Bowles’ system is at its most dangerous when pressure can be generated without excessive blitzing. Explosive edge defenders who can win one-on-one matchups are premium assets in today’s NFL.
We are working through each position group this cycle. With that in mind, here is our report on Texas A&M edge rusher Cashius Howell.
InformationSchool: Texas A&MConference: SECPosition: EDGEHeight Weight: 6-2, 248 poundsClass: Redshirt SeniorHometown: Kansas City, MissouriPrevious School: Bowling GreenBackground
Howell began his collegiate career at Bowling Green, where he steadily developed into one of the most productive pass rushers in the MAC. In 2023, he earned Third-Team All-MAC honors after leading the conference with 9.5 sacks.
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After transferring to Texas A&M, Howell proved his production was not system-driven. He adapted quickly to SEC competition and maintained high-level efficiency as a pass rusher. Across his final two seasons, he showcased consistent pressure creation and disruptive ability against Power Five offensive lines.
His developmental arc from Group of Five standout to SEC impact defender speaks to both growth and translatable traits.
Notable Stats591 total snaps41 total pressures12 sacks90.3 pass rush grade81.2 overall defensive grade
Howell’s 2025 season stands out for elite pass rush grading and sack production against SEC competition.
SkillsExplosive first stepStrong bend around the arcHigh-level pass rush efficiencyGood counter usageActive hands at the point of attackMotor and pursuit effortExperience in multiple alignments
Howell wins with burst and leverage. At 6-2 and 248 pounds, he does not possess prototypical edge length, but he compensates with quickness and timing. His ability to corner and flatten to the quarterback stands out on tape, particularly in obvious passing situations.
He also flashes hand counters and inside moves, preventing tackles from oversetting to protect the edge. While his frame suggests he may not be a traditional power-based edge setter, he competes well against the run and shows a willingness to engage physically.
Player Summary
Cashius Howell projects as a mid-to-late first-round selection in the 2026 NFL Draft. His pass rush production in both the MAC and SEC demonstrates that his skill set translates across competition levels, and his 2025 season confirms legitimate high-end EDGE2 upside with starting potential.
In Tampa Bay, Howell would fit as a stand-up edge rusher in Todd Bowles’ front. His ability to win off the edge would allow Bowles to generate pressure without relying exclusively on blitz packages. Howell profiles as an immediate rotational contributor with the potential to develop into a full-time starting edge defender in the right system.