Summary

• Drafted: Round 2, 54th overall, in the 2023 NFL Draft by the Los Angeles Chargers. USC Athletics

• College: University of Southern California (USC). NFL Draft Buzz

• Key Statistics / Production: At USC, Tuipulotu recorded 116 tackles, 32 tackles-for-loss, and 13.5 sacks in his final season. USC Athletics

• Accolades / Character: He was a unanimous All-American in 2022, Pac-12 Defensive Player of the Year, and won the Morris Trophy. NFL Draft Buzz Known for his relentless motor, hand violence, and ability to play both inside and outside on the defensive line. Los Angeles Chargers

Strengths

• Versatility: Can align as a 3‑tech, 5‑tech, or wide‑9; effective both inside and on the edge. NFL Draft Buzz

• Explosive First Step / Acceleration: Very quick off the snap, often beating linemen with speed‑to‑power. SI

• Hand Usage / Disengage Ability: Uses violent hands, sets up blocks, and counters effectively when initial moves stall. NFL Draft Buzz

• Power Conversion: Translates his linear burst into power; can drive through blockers and collapse pockets. SI

• Run Defense: Strong in gap control, exhibits good leverage, and stops the run from the inside. NFL Draft Buzz

• Motor / High Effort: Consistently plays with a strong work ethic, chasing plays downhill and providing a high‑energy presence. Los Angeles Chargers

• Football IQ: Recognizes blocking schemes, sets up counter moves, and shows awareness in both run and pass situations. NFL Draft Buzz

Weaknesses

• Length / Frame Limitation: At ~6’3″ and 266 lb, he lacks ideal arm length for some edge matchups and may struggle against longer tackles. NFL Draft Buzz

• Discipline / Fit Discipline: Needs to improve his gap-soundness; can be too aggressive, risking blown assignments or voids. Los Angeles Chargers

• Consistency as Pass Rusher: While explosive, he’s still developing his counter repertoire and does not always sustain rushes versus technical blockers. Los Angeles Chargers

• Fit Risk Between Inside and Edge: His “tweener” size could make it challenging to settle into a single role long-term.

• Durability / Usage: As he plays more snaps, managing his motor and stamina will be key; high-effort players can risk fatigue or injury.

Fit & Outlook

Tuipulotu projects as a key rotational piece who can grow into a more central role in the Chargers’ front-seven. His versatility allows defensive coordinators to deploy him in multiple fronts—both as an interior disruptor in 4-3 sets and as a wide-9 edge rusher in sub-packages. If he refines his counter moves, improves his gap discipline, and maintains his motor, he has the potential to become a core defensive lineman—a player who may not be the top sack artist on every down, but whose presence and versatility elevate the entire defensive front. Over time, he could be a foundational piece, especially in schemes that value flexible, high-effort play from their defenders.