Former UCLA linebacker Oluwafemi Oladejo is climbing up NFL draft boards after his impressive performance at the 2025 Reese’s Senior Bowl on Saturday. His position switch and strong play have caught the attention of scouts, especially as the Bruins’ third-leading tackler from last season.
After an excellent week of practice that helped him gain interest from professional teams, Oladejo shined as a defensive end in the game, earning two sacks. He made a standout play when he took down Alabama quarterback Jalen Milroe by the shoestrings.
Oladejo was a key leader for the Bruins last year, recording 57 tackles, 4.5 sacks, and two pass breakups. At the Senior Bowl, the Elk Grove, California native moved to defensive end as a pass rusher and looked comfortable in his new role.
Being able to play multiple defensive positions is a rare skill many NFL players don’t have. Oladejo showed he can be a versatile asset for any NFL team, able to switch roles and remain effective depending on the situation.
Matt Verderame reported on Oladejo’s strong Senior Bowl performance and shared some of his own thoughts on his skills and physicality.
“I definitely have a unique body,” Oladejo said. “Very long, lengthy, but lean. … I played MIKE linebacker my first three years, so I have the mindset of a MIKE ’backer. I know what’s going on around me. Now I’m an edge, and I can use my power, my speed, my explosiveness.”
Questions will arise about where Oladejo will be taken in the 2025 NFL Draft, but his strong play as an edge rusher will definitely help his stock. At 6-3, 250 pounds, he’s ready to show his talents in the NFL.
Verderame predicts Oladejo will be selected in the late rounds but could end up being a steal for a team. There are always players in every draft who exceed expectations, and Oladejo may be another example of that.
