Summary

Isaiah McGuire was drafted in the 2023 NFL Draft, Round 4, (pick 126) out of University of Missouri. McGuire is a strong-bodied, long-armed edge rusher who brings power, effort, and positional versatility. With a background of steady production in the SEC and a build that translates to the NFL, he offers a meaningful rotational or future-starting piece off the edge. His ability to engage blockers, set the edge versus the run, and bring his motor every play are keys to his value.

That said, to become a high-impact starter, McGuire must refine his pass-rush toolkit (especially bend and counters), improve his lateral agility in space, and polish his consistency in one-on-one situations against elite offensive tackles. He projects as a strong rotational edge with starter upside in the right scheme.

Strengths

• Length & physical build – McGuire possesses a frame well-suited for edge play: long arms, heavy build, and power to engage blockers. Bleacher Report

• Run-defense and hand usage – He shows ability to set the edge, absorb blocks, and use his hands to control offensive tackles or tight ends in the run game. CBS Sports

• Motor and effort – Scouts note his relentless pursuit of the ball and consistent high-effort play. NFL Draft Buzz

• Versatility in alignment / role – McGuire has played both with his hand in the dirt and standing up, can slide inside or out, giving schemes flexibility. Steelers Depot

Weaknesses

• Bend / change of direction limitations – While powerful, he is rated as “average” in bending the edge with tight arc or rapid change of direction. Cheesehead TV

• Pass-rush refinement / counter-move development – McGuire doesn’t yet have a dominant go-to move or elite explosion off the snap; some of his wins come via power rather than finesse or speed. Rock M Nation

• Lateral movement and pursuit range – In space or when the play stretches wide or behind, his lateral agility and pursuit angle may be challenged. profootballnetwork.com

• Rawness / developmental need – Though productive, he is considered somewhat of a developmental edge with work needed to refine technique and consistency. NFL Draft Buzz

Fit & Outlook

• Fit:
  McGuire fits best in defensive schemes that:

• use 4-3 or 4-2-5 fronts with defined edge-rush roles

• emphasize power, gap control, and edge-setting rather than purely speed/athleticism-driven perimeter rush

• allow him to rotate and develop with mentorship rather than thrust into a full every-down pass-rush role immediately

• Outlook:

• Short-Term: Expect McGuire to begin in a rotational edge capacity, contributing on first- and second-down sets, playing sub-package snaps and special teams, while refining his craft.

• Medium-Term: With progression in his technique and scheme fit, he has the potential to become a reliable starter — especially in run-defense and as a secondary pass-rush option.