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Top 10 Pass-Rushers in College Football for 2024
When commencing our rankings for the top 10 pass-rushers in college football for 2024, the starting point naturally falls at the quarterback position due to its paramount importance. However, this week’s focus shifts to the players tasked with disrupting the quarterback’s rhythm. Our panel of reporters was tasked with ranking their top 10 pass-rushers, resulting in a diverse yet impressive list that includes transfers, veterans, underclassmen, and even teammates. Points were allocated based on the reporters’ selections, with 10 points awarded for first place, nine for second, and so forth. Below are the outcomes of the rankings.
Aiden Pearce – Tennessee
2023 stats: 10 sacks, 14.5 tackles for loss, 2 forced fumbles
Points: 58 (five first-place votes)
While not initially recognized as a blue-chip recruit, Pearce garnered attention from top programs like Georgia, Florida State, and Oklahoma. Despite not being among Tennessee’s highly-touted recruits, Pearce emerged as one of the premier pass-rushers in college football in his first full season as a starter. Finishing seventh nationally in sacks and fifth in sacks created, Pearce showcased a remarkable 19% pressure rate. Equally adept at affecting the run game, Pearce managed 10 run stops along with his impressive sack total. Standing at 6-foot-5 and 242 pounds, Pearce’s potential for growth remains high as he embarks on his third collegiate season. – Bill Connelly
Jesse Gillotte – Louisville
2023 stats: 11 sacks, 14.5 tackles for loss, 3 forced fumbles
Points: 53 (one first-place vote)
Gillotte’s decision to return to Louisville for another season sparked jubilation among Cardinals fans, as the team secures a standout performer for the 2024 campaign. With a trajectory on the rise since his freshman year, Gillotte’s breakout season in 2023 garnered him All-ACC honors and national recognition. Expected to lead a defense that demonstrated significant progress in pass-rushing, Gillotte emerges as a frontrunner for ACC Defensive Player of the Year heading into the new season. – Andrea Adelson
Taylor Moore – Texas
2023 stats: 14 sacks, 17.5 tackles for loss, 1 forced fumble
Points: 43 (two first-place votes)
Transferring to Texas from UTSA, Moore bolsters an ascending Longhorns defense, bringing elite pass-rushing skills to the table. With notable achievements at UTSA, including setting records for tackles for loss and sacks, Moore’s transition to the SEC presents an opportunity to excel further. Expected to fill the void left by departing defensive standouts, Moore’s prowess for collecting sacks positions him as a valuable asset within Texas’ defensive scheme and a potential prospect for the NFL. – Adam Rittenberg
Jack Sawyer – Ohio State
2023 stats: 6.5 sacks, 10 tackles for loss, 2 forced fumbles
Points: 35
Sawyer’s decision to remain at Ohio State for the upcoming season solidifies the Buckeyes’ defensive end rotation as one of the premier tandems in college football, alongside JT Tuimoloau. Regarded as a top prospect in the 2021 class, Sawyer showcased his talent through a strong finish to the previous season, amassing sacks and tackles for loss. With the potential to reach double-digit sacks in 2024, Sawyer’s contributions will play a pivotal role in Ohio State’s defensive effectiveness. – Chris Low
Casey Bain – Miami
2023 stats: 7.5 sacks, 12.5 tackles for loss, 3 forced fumbles
Points: 35
Overcoming various challenges as a true freshman, Bain emerged as a formidable force in 2023, earning accolades as the ACC’s Defensive Rookie of the Year. With a remarkable stat line, including several key defensive contributions, Bain’s progression signifies a potential turning point for the Miami defense. Expected to headline Miami’s defensive efforts in the upcoming season, Bain’s sophomore campaign poses a significant threat to opposing quarterbacks. – David Hale
Khadir Rucker – North Carolina
2023 stats: 8.5 sacks, 15 tackles for loss, 1 forced fumble
Points: 30
A seasoned pass-rusher, Rucker brings a wealth of experience to North Carolina’s defensive front, displaying disruptive abilities throughout his collegiate career. With a breakout season in 2023, Rucker’s proficiency in generating sacks and tackles for loss earned him national recognition and All-ACC honors. Renowned for his versatility and effectiveness against the run, Rucker stands as a cornerstone of the Tar Heels’ defense and a prominent figure in the ACC landscape. – Rittenberg
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