One knock on the ACC this past season was just how many good teams there were. One knock that the conference doesn't have is how many good edges there were on defense. Boston College had who was deemed the best, with Donovan Ezeiruaku and Virginia Tech's Antwaun Powell-Ryland.
Ezeiruaku went on Day of the 2025 NFL Draft to the Dallas Cowboys, and it took a really long time for Powell-Ryland to get picked, but he was taken in the sixth round by the Philadelphia Eagles, No. 209 overall. Both players ending up in the NFC East is kind of interesting.
Philadelphia Eagles add under-the-radar edge with Virginia Tech's Antwaun Powell-Ryland
In the end, this could very well end up being a steal for the defending Super Bowl champs. It was head-scratching to see Powell-Ryland last as long as he did, but he is the second former Hokie to end up in the NFC East after wide receiver Jaylin Lane was picked earlier in the day by the Washington Commanders.
In 2024, Powell-Ryland was first-team All-ACC, and what a final season he had for Virginia Tech. In 12 games, he racked up 43 tackles, 29 solo and 14 sacks. He had four-sack games against Old Dominion and Boston College and former scrambling QB Thomas Castellanos. He joined elite company this past season and had the four sacks against the Eagles in front of former Tech great Bruce Smith.
Powell-Ryland improved during his two seasons with the Hokies after coming over from Florida and being drafted by the Eagles, It gives him a chance to grow at the professional level without being rushed into the lineup. His speed and ability will no doubt get him on the field for some downs in 2025.