Cowboys 2025 draft scouting report: OLB Mike Green

We continue our 2025 NFL Draft preview of draft prospects that could interest the Dallas Cowboys. Today we are looking at edge rusher Mike Green from Marshall.

EDGE
Marshall Thundering Herd
Junior
3-star recruit
6’4”
248 lbs

Photo by Lee Coleman/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

History

Mike Green attended Lafayette High School in Williamsburg, Virginia, where he played both linebacker and tight end. He was a three-star recruit, showcasing his versatility in sports by also competing in wrestling, where he secured second and third place in state titles during his sophomore and junior years.

He committed to the University of Virginia in 2021 but had a limited role, playing in only six games as a true freshman and registered only four tackles and one sack. He did not play in 2022 and at the end of the year he entered the transfer portal.

Green joined Marshall in 2023 and his impact was immediate; as a redshirt freshman, he recorded 43 tackles, nine tackles for loss, and five sacks. Then in 2024, he had an explosive season, leading the FBS in sacks with 17, setting a Sun Belt Conference record, and tying the Marshall single-season record. His performance in 2024 made him a notable prospect for the 2025 NFL Draft, with projections placing him as a potential first-round pick. He declared for the draft in December 2024, leaving with two years of eligibility remaining.

2024 Statistics

668 Defensive Snaps
84 Total Tackles
23 Tackles For Loss
56 Total Pressures
17 Sacks
2 Pass Breakups
3 Forced Fumbles
1 Fumble Recovery
2 Penalties

NFL Combine/Pro Day

TBC

Awards

All-America (2024)
G5 Defensive Player of the Year (2024)
Sun Belt Conference Player of the Year (2024)
First-Team All-Sun Belt (2024)

Scorecard

Overall- 88.4
Speed- 82
Acceleration- 94
Agility- 84
Strength- 94
Pass Rush- 95
Run Defense- 81
Tackling- 89
Discipline- 98

THE GOOD

• Green’s primary trait is his exceptional first step and acceleration off the line of scrimmage that is timed to perfection.
• He has a diverse set of moves including arm-over, cross-chop, stick, spin, and hump, allowing him to effectively counter different types of offensive tackles.
• He shows remarkable bend to curve around offensive linemen, utilizing his flexibility to navigate around the edge.
• High effort level, particularly noted in his relentless pursuit of quarterbacks and ball carriers, which often leads to plays made downfield or coverage sacks.
• Primarily he’s suited to play as an outside linebacker in a 3-4 scheme, but has shown some capability in playing on an even front.
• Green’s draft stock is bolstered by his athletic profile and production, but teams will need to consider his physical limitations and the level of competition he faced in college when determining his draft value.

THE BAD

• His size and frame might struggle against NFL offensive tackles who are significantly heavier and longer.
• His lack of bulk is an obvious disadvantage when in run defense and when dealing with double teams.
• While he can make plays near the line of scrimmage, his effectiveness against the run can be inconsistent.
• Limited experience against top-tier competition, having spent most of his time in the Group of Five.
• His ability to cover on passing plays requires development.
• His struggles with pad height makes him less effective as a traditional defensive end with his hand in the dirt.

THE FIT

Mike Green is an athletic marvel with an advanced pass-rush repertoire, making him a tantalizing prospect for teams needing an edge rusher who can disrupt the passing game. His performance at the Senior Bowl was particularly noteworthy, reinforcing his status as a potential first-round pick. His draft stock is bolstered by his athletic profile and production, but teams will need to consider his physical limitations and the level of competition he faced in college when determining his draft value.

His size and the need for added strength to handle NFL-caliber tackles present areas for growth. His projection in the NFL might initially see him used as a pass-rush specialist in sub-packages, with the potential to develop into a three-down defender if he can bulk up without losing his agility.

Green would instantly add much needed depth and competition to the EDGE position for the Dallas Cowboys. He could challenge for snaps with players like Marshawn Kneeland, Sam Williams, or even complement Micah Parsons’ role when Parsons moves inside. His motor and athleticism could make him a candidate for special teams, contributing in roles like kick coverage or blocking, which is valuable for a rookie.

Given his size concerns, the Cowboys might see him as a project to add weight and strength, aiming to turn him into a more complete three-down defender. This would involve coaching to enhance his run defense. With veterans like DeMarcus Lawrence coming to the end of his time in Dallas, Green could be viewed as part of the next generation of Cowboys’ pass rushers, learning from current stars and eventually taking on a more significant role. His fit would largely depend on the Cowboys’ draft strategy, whether they aim for immediate contributors or are willing to draft for potential, betting on their newly formed coaching staff to mold him into a more well-rounded player. If selected, he could thrive in a competitive environment that values versatility and athleticism.

COMPARISON

Montez Sweat, Chicago Bears

BTB GRADE

13th

CONSENSUS RANKING

21st
(Consensus ranking based on the average ranking from 90 major scoring services)