Illinois defensive end/linebacker Seth Coleman enters the 2025 NFL Draft as a steady contributor. The versatile defender recorded 13.5 sacks over the previous three seasons. At Pro Day, Coleman went through drills as both a defensive end and off-ball linebacker.
Coleman recently spoke exclusively with The Draft Network. He discussed how he improved at Illinois, positional versatility, which teams attended his Pro Day, his upcoming local day invite, and more.
JM: You made a lot of plays over the past two seasons at Illinois, totaling 16 tackles for loss and nine sacks. What changed for you leading to that improvement?
Seth Coleman: I really meshed well with our coaching staff. That was the main thing. We focused on the details. I think that’s what helped me progress as a player. They put me in positions to make plays.
JM: How has your pass-rush arsenal evolved over the years? It looked more polished on tape this past season, even though the sack production wasn't quite as strong as it was in 2023.
Seth Coleman: I was able to hone in on my technique. I was able to see more and do more as a player because I trusted my eyes. I felt like a smoother, more efficient player. That’s how I felt. I also gained some good weight. I gained 10 pounds going into the season.
I used more power as a rusher. I became a better power rusher because I had that good weight on me.
JM: Where do teams see you playing at the next level? Is it a full-time edge, or has there been any chatter of kicking you to off-ball linebacker?
Seth Coleman: I did go through some drills as an off-ball linebacker at my Pro Day. That was in addition to my work as a defensive end. I’m not really sure where teams see me at the next level. The more you can do, the better. Wherever they put me, I’ll put my best foot forward.
JM: You put together a nice Pro Day. I know you leaped a 36.5-inch vertical. Walk us through some of the results. Did you get good feedback?
Seth Coleman: I ran a 4.68 40. I also posted 20 reps on the bench press. I had a 10-foot-3 broad jump. I got great feedback from NFL teams. I’m excited about what comes next.
JM: Did you meet with any teams before or after Pro Day, and do you have any visits or workouts coming up?
Seth Coleman: I’ve accepted an invite to the Indianapolis Colts’ local pro day. We had scouts from 28 teams at Pro Day. I spoke with the Green Bay Packers, Colts, and Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
JM: We've appreciated your time today. Why should a team use one of their draft picks on Seth Coleman?
Seth Coleman: I’m ready to play whatever role is asked of me. I can contribute on special teams. Whatever it is, I’m ready to go. I’m going to be an asset at the next level.
