March 5, 2026, 9:50 p.m. ET
It is never too early to evaluate defensive line depth for the 2026 NFL Draft. General manager Jason Licht has consistently built through the trenches, and Todd Bowles’ defense operates at its best when interior defenders can anchor against the run while still collapsing the pocket on passing downs. Rotational disruptors matter in Tampa Bay’s system, especially with how often Bowles leans on pressure packages.
We are working through each position group this cycle. With that in mind, here is our report on Southeastern Louisiana defensive lineman Kaleb Proctor.
InformationSchool: Southeastern LouisianaConference: SouthlandPosition: Defensive LineHeight: 6-3Weight: 280 poundsClass: SeniorHometown: Oak Grove, LouisianaBackground
Proctor entered college as an All-State linebacker at Oak Grove High School before transitioning to the defensive line at Southeastern Louisiana. Over four seasons, he developed into a consistent interior presence and multi-year starter.
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He played in 12 games in 2022 before stepping into a larger role in 2023 with 10 starts. His breakout campaign came in 2024 when he earned second-team All-Southland Conference honors after posting 49 tackles, 6 tackles for loss, and 4.5 sacks.
In 2025, Proctor elevated his play across the board, producing his most complete and disruptive season while anchoring the interior for Southeastern Louisiana.
Notable Stats564 total snaps in 202539 total pressures in 20259 sacks in 202586.5 overall defensive grade in 202574.2 run defense grade in 2025
Proctor more than doubled his total pressure output from 2024 to 2025, signaling clear growth as an interior pass rusher.
SkillsPower-based interior defenderStrong natural leverageImproved hand usage in 2025Interior pocket collapse abilityExperience in high snap volume roleDeveloping pass-rush counters
At 6-3 and 280 pounds, Proctor plays with a compact build and consistent pad level. He wins with effort and functional strength more than pure explosiveness. His 2025 tape shows better hand placement and a stronger understanding of how to disengage once engaged.
He primarily aligns inside as a defensive tackle and shows the ability to attack a single gap effectively. While not a traditional nose tackle, he holds his ground well against solo blocks and can disrupt timing when allowed to penetrate.
The nine sacks in 2025 stand out. That production from an interior alignment reflects improved finishing ability and awareness in the pocket.
Player Summary
Kaleb Proctor projects as a late Day 3 selection or priority free agent with rotational upside at the next level. His steady development and 2025 production jump suggest a player trending upward, though the jump in competition will be a key evaluation factor.
For the Buccaneers, Proctor would profile as developmental interior depth behind established veterans. In Bowles’ scheme, he could compete for rotational snaps as an interior disruptor while adding strength and refining his pass-rush plan at the next level.