Summary

Joe Tryon-Shoyinka was selected in Round 1 (#32 Overall) of the 2021 NFL Draft out of the University of Washington. A former five-star recruit, Tryon-Shoyinka entered the NFL as a high-ceiling edge defender after opting out of the 2020 college season. In his final year at Washington (2019), he recorded 41 tackles, 12.0 tackles for loss, and 8.0 sacks, earning Second-Team All-Pac-12 honors and showcasing rare length and explosiveness. Since entering the NFL, Tryon-Shoyinka has been a regular starter and rotational edge presence, appearing in 50+ games through the 2024 season. He has produced 15+ career sacks, 30+ tackles for loss, and consistent pressure numbers, while playing both stand-up outside linebacker and hand-in-the-dirt defensive end roles. While his production has not fully matched first-round expectations now on his third time in four years, he remains valued for his athletic traits, effort, and versatility. Tryon-Shoyinka is widely regarded as a high-character, disciplined, team-first professional, praised for his work ethic, maturity, and willingness to accept coaching.

Strengths

• Elite Length & Frame: Long arms and broad build allow him to engage, separate, and disrupt passing lanes. Effective converting speed to power when timing is right.

• Athleticism: Fluid mover with good straight-line speed and lateral agility for his size. Can play as a stand-up edge or traditional defensive end in multiple fronts.

• Edge-Setting Ability: Strong against the run and works hard to hold the point of attack and maintain leverage. Maintains assignment integrity and rarely freelances out of structure.

• Motor & Effort: Plays hard snap-to-snap and consistently pursues from the backside. Known as a diligent worker who responds well to instruction.

Weaknesses

• Pass-Rush Consistency: Has struggled to translate athletic traits into sustained sack production. Get-off is good but not elite compared to top NFL edge rushers.

• Rush Plan Development: Limited counter moves and often stalls when initial move is neutralized. Pressures do not always convert into quarterback hits or sacks.

• Bend & Flexibility: Wins more upright and lacks elite ability to dip and flatten around the edge.

• Ceiling vs. Draft Slot: Production has not consistently aligned with first-round expectations (third time and still on first contract).

Outlook

Joe Tryon-Shoyinka is best suited for multiple-front defenses that value length, edge discipline, and rotational pass-rush depth. He fits well as a strong-side edge defender who can set the edge on early downs and contribute as a complementary rusher rather than being the primary sack artist. Schemes that allow him to reduce inside on passing downs or attack favorable matchups can maximize his effectiveness. Looking ahead, Tryon-Shoyinka projects as a solid rotational starter with defined strengths rather than a dominant edge centerpiece. Continued improvement in pass-rush sequencing, hand usage, and counters will determine whether he can elevate into a more impactful role. Even if sack production remains moderate, his run defense, effort, versatility, and professionalism give him a stable floor as a reliable NFL edge defender who can contribute meaningfully within a structured defensive rotation.