Moro Ojomo Named Among NFL’s Most Underrated Defenders, Boosting Eagles’ D-Line Depth

Eagles Defensive Tackle Moro Ojomo Earns National Recognition

The Philadelphia Eagles’ defensive line, long considered the engine of the team’s defense, continues to produce unexpected talent. Interior Defensive Lineman (IDL) Moro Ojomo has officially been recognized as one of the NFL’s most underrated defensive players, according to a recent analysis by SB Nation.

Ojomo, a former seventh-round pick from the 2023 NFL Draft, was specifically highlighted in a list that also featured linebackers like Ernest Jones and Divine Deablo. This recognition signals that Ojomo is transitioning from a developmental prospect to a legitimate, high-impact rotational piece—a crucial development for the Eagles as they prepare for the 2025 season.

The Case for Underrated Status: Efficiency and Potential

For a player to be labeled “underrated,” it typically means their production significantly outweighs their public profile or snap count. In Ojomo’s case, his inclusion on the list is a testament to his performance during the previous season, where he maximized limited opportunities.

As a rookie in 2023, Ojomo saw minimal action, but he demonstrated significant growth in the subsequent season. Playing behind established stars like Jalen Carter and Jordan Davis, Ojomo’s role was primarily as a depth piece in the rotation. However, his ability to generate pressure and hold the line of scrimmage efficiently stood out to analysts who dig deeper than surface-level statistics.

Why Ojomo Stands Out

Ojomo’s profile as an underrated defender is built on several key attributes that are highly valued in the modern NFL defensive scheme:

• Run Defense Solidity: He possesses the necessary strength and leverage to anchor against double teams, a critical skill for an IDL, particularly in short-yardage situations.
• Pass Rush Potential: Despite being primarily known for his run-stopping ability, Ojomo showed flashes of interior pass-rush moves, hinting at a higher ceiling for disruption.
• Snap Count Efficiency: His high-impact plays often occurred on a relatively low percentage of defensive snaps, demonstrating a high motor and readiness when called upon.
• Developmental Trajectory: As a late-round pick, his rapid ascent and ability to contribute meaningfully in just his second year far exceeded the typical expectations for a player drafted in the seventh round.

This type of recognition is particularly valuable for the Eagles’ front office, validating their strategy of investing heavily in the defensive line and trusting their scouting department to find talent late in the draft.

The Eagles’ D-Line Factory: A Culture of Depth

The Philadelphia Eagles have historically prioritized depth and rotation along the defensive line, a philosophy often referred to as the “D-Line Factory.” This approach keeps the entire unit fresh throughout the 17-game season and into the playoffs, ensuring maximum pressure on opposing offenses.

Ojomo’s emergence is crucial because it provides high-quality insurance and complements the team’s existing star power. While Jalen Carter and Jordan Davis command the majority of the attention and snaps, the success of the rotation depends entirely on the reliability of players like Ojomo.

“The Eagles’ defensive philosophy demands that every lineman, regardless of draft status, be ready to contribute significant, high-leverage snaps. Ojomo’s recognition proves he has internalized that expectation and is ready for an expanded role,” noted one analyst covering the team.

Impact on the 2025 Defensive Scheme

Heading into the 2025 season, Ojomo’s proven capability allows the defensive coordinator greater flexibility in personnel groupings. Instead of relying solely on the starters to carry the load, Ojomo can be trusted to maintain the level of intensity and disruption during crucial rotational periods.

This depth is especially vital in the NFC East, where trench warfare often dictates the outcome of divisional matchups. If Ojomo can build upon his “underrated” status and increase his snap count while maintaining efficiency, he could solidify his position as a long-term starter or high-end rotational player for the franchise.

Key Takeaways for Eagles Fans

Ojomo’s inclusion on the list of underrated defenders is more than just a headline; it has tangible implications for the team’s defensive outlook for the current season.

• Validated Scouting: The recognition validates the Eagles’ decision to invest a late-round pick in Ojomo, demonstrating successful talent development within the organization.
• Increased Depth: Ojomo provides critical depth at the IDL position, reducing the workload on stars like Carter and Davis and ensuring the defensive line remains effective late in games.
• Potential Contract Value: As an underrated player, Ojomo is currently a high-value asset on a low-cost rookie contract, maximizing the team’s salary cap efficiency.
• Expect Expanded Role: Fans should anticipate seeing a significant increase in Ojomo’s defensive snap percentage in 2025, moving him from a fringe player to a core rotational member.

Conclusion

Moro Ojomo’s recognition as one of the NFL’s most underrated defensive players serves as a powerful reminder that impact is not always measured by draft pedigree or Pro Bowl votes. His development is a significant win for the Philadelphia Eagles, reinforcing their identity as a team built from the trenches out. As the Eagles look to make a strong push in the 2025 season, Ojomo’s quiet rise provides a high-ceiling, low-cost solution to maintaining one of the league’s most feared defensive fronts. The era of Ojomo being “underrated” may soon be over.