Top Sun Devil Potential Fits for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers

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  Published in Health and Fitness on Tuesday, October 28th 2025 at 14:25 GMT by Sports Illustrated

Jordyn Tyson: Dominant Pass Rush

Tyson finished his senior season with 23 tackles for loss and 12.5 sacks, leading the Sun Devils in defensive statistics. His blend of power, speed, and pass‑rushing technique has drawn comparisons to former NFL edge rusher T.J. Watt. The 6‑10, 260‑lb lineman was named first‑team All‑Pac‑12 and was the Sun Devils’ unanimous pick for the team’s Defensive MVP.

In a recent interview, ASU defensive coordinator Mike Tice praised Tyson’s work ethic: “He trains harder than anyone in the nation. The way he read offenses and adjusted his stance on the line showed a professional’s mind.” Scouts from the Cleveland Browns and Green Bay Packers have placed Tyson on their early‑round watch lists, with analysts projecting him as a potential second‑ or third‑round pick, depending on the depth of the defensive line class.

Keyshaun Elliott: Safety with a Defensive IQ

Elliott, a senior free safety, compiled 75 tackles, five interceptions, and two forced fumbles over his final season. Known for his exceptional ball‑hawking ability, Elliott was selected for the Pac‑12 Defensive Specialist Team. His performance against the University of Oregon was a highlight, where he intercepted two passes in the fourth quarter to secure a 28‑21 win.

“Keyshaun’s ability to read the quarterback and anticipate the play is off the charts,” said head coach Herm Edwards. “He’s a natural leader on the field and will be a valuable asset in any defensive scheme.” The Dallas Cowboys and San Francisco 49ers have earmarked Elliott as a possible late‑first‑round candidate, citing his size (6‑3, 205 lbs) and coverage skills.

CJ Fite: Anchoring the Offensive Line

Guard CJ Fite was instrumental in ASU’s offensive surge, allowing only 2.5 sacks in his senior campaign and earning first‑team All‑Pac‑12 honors. Standing 6‑5, 330 lbs, Fite’s combination of agility and strength made him a reliable protector for quarterback Tyler Vaughn and a powerful runner in the run game. He led the team with 75 pancake blocks and was praised for his versatility in both the power and zone blocking schemes.

Former NFL offensive line coach Dan Rinfret commented, “Fite has the ideal blend of technique and athleticism that we look for. He’s a mature player with the mindset of a pro.” With the depth of the offensive line class in 2025, projections place Fite as a potential second‑round pick, especially if the league continues to value strong interior linemen.

Clayton Smith: Tight End with a Dual Threat

Tight end Clayton Smith contributed 42 receptions for 520 yards and six touchdowns in his senior season, proving to be both a reliable pass catch and a formidable blocker. His 6‑4 frame and 242‑lb weight allow him to create mismatches against defensive backs. Smith’s versatility was highlighted in a pivotal game against Oregon State, where he hauled in two touchdowns in the fourth quarter to secure the win.

“Clayton is a classic two‑way tight end,” remarked offensive coordinator Kyle Allen. “His route running is precise, and he’s a force on the line of scrimmage.” The New York Giants and Chicago Bears have listed Smith as a potential late‑first‑round prospect, citing his potential to become a focal point in their passing attack.

Impact on the ASU Program

The presence of four seniors on the NFL Draft board underscores ASU’s reputation as a program that can produce high‑level talent. The Sun Devils have consistently been among the top producers of NFL talent in the Pac‑12, and the upcoming draft will likely see additional players selected from ASU’s roster. This success attracts recruits who aspire to reach the professional level, further enhancing the program’s competitiveness.

Broader Draft Landscape

The 2025 NFL Draft is expected to be competitive across multiple positions. According to a recent analysis from NFL.com, the draft is projected to feature a high number of defensive linemen and offensive linemen, reflecting the league’s continued emphasis on protecting the quarterback and controlling the line of scrimmage. Players like Tyson and Fite could capitalize on this trend, whereas defensive backs like Elliott are in demand due to the increasing use of spread offenses that emphasize passing.

In addition, the tight end position has seen a resurgence, with teams seeking versatile players capable of both blocking and receiving. Smith’s dual skill set aligns well with modern offensive schemes, making him a valuable prospect.

Looking Ahead

As the draft approaches, each of the four ASU seniors will likely participate in combines, pro days, and individual workouts to showcase their abilities to teams. The outcomes will not only determine their professional futures but will also influence the Sun Devils’ recruiting narrative for the coming years. If Tyson, Elliott, Fite, and Smith all secure contracts, Arizona State could claim a historic achievement—four consecutive seniors landing in the NFL Draft, a testament to the coaching staff’s development acumen and the players’ dedication.

The forthcoming draft will undoubtedly be watched closely by fans and analysts alike, eager to see how the Sun Devils’ talent translates onto the national stage.