Grady Jarrett

Summary

Grady Jarrett was selected in Round 5 (#137 Overall) of the 2015 NFL Draft out of Clemson University. With the Tigers, Jarrett posted 191 total tackles, 23 tackles for loss, and 11.5 sacks, earning Second-Team All-ACC honors before entering the NFL. Despite being undersized for a traditional defensive tackle, Jarrett quickly developed into one of the league’s most disruptive interior defenders. Through the 2024 season, Jarrett has appeared in 140+ NFL games, recording 400+ tackles, 35+ sacks, 90+ quarterback hits, and consistent pressure production from the interior. He is a two-time Pro Bowl selection (2019, 2020) and earned Second-Team All-Pro honors (2019), while also playing a key role in Atlanta’s Super Bowl LI appearance. Jarrett is universally respected for his elite work ethic, leadership, toughness, and professionalism, serving as a long-time defensive captain and culture-setter.

Strengths

• Interior Pass Rush: One of the NFL’s best interior disruptors over the past decade, Jarrett consistently collapses the pocket with a naturally low center of gravity helps him win despite size disadvantages.

• First-Step Quickness: Explosive get-off allows him to win early against guards and centers. Relentless pursuit and plays at full speed snap-to-snap.

• Run Defense Penetration: Effective at shooting gaps and disrupting run plays before they develop. Reliable year-over-year production regardless of surrounding talent.

• Hand Usage: Violent, efficient hands to disengage and counter blocks.

Weaknesses

• Size vs. Double Teams: Can be worn down by frequent double teams over the course of games.

• Age & Mileage: Entering later stages of career, his durability management is increasingly important.

• Limited Length: Shorter arms can affect ability to stack and control bigger interior linemen.

• Snap Load Management: Effectiveness can dip when asked to carry excessive snap volume.

Outlook

Jarrett is ideally suited for one-gap, attacking defensive schemes that prioritize interior penetration and pocket disruption. His ability to win quickly off the snap makes him a perfect fit for defenses that allow defensive tackles to play aggressively rather than read-and-react. When paired with complementary edge rushers, Jarrett’s interior pressure significantly elevates overall pass-rush efficiency and forces quarterbacks off their spots. For the time being, Jarrett projects as a useful veteran starter whose effectiveness will be maximized through snap management and rotational support. While age may gradually limit his workload, his technique, motor, and football intelligence suggest he can remain a productive interior presence even as raw explosiveness declines. Beyond on-field production, Jarrett’s leadership, preparation habits, and professionalism ensure continued value as a cornerstone veteran and locker-room leader for any defensive unit.