What Are Adetomiwa Adebawore’s 4 Best NFL Team Fits?

Northwestern defensive lineman Adetomiwa Adebawore has generated tons of buzz as the 2023 NFL Draft approaches. A monster pre-draft process that included standout performances in both this year’s Senior Bowl and the NFL Combine has attached a jetpack to his draft stock, raising him up to potential first-round pick status.

With his versatility to play in a range of positions on the front line and his ability to penetrate the interior quickly, Adebawore has caught the attention of many teams. As a tireless, high-motor player, he can provide disruptive plays all over the field. Adebawore’s natural leverage, coupled with his condensed frame, makes him a valuable player at the point of attack.

Here are the four best NFL team fits for Adebawore.

Detroit Lions

While the team invested in edge rushers in the 2022 NFL Draft, their interior defensive line was still a weak spot during the 2022 season, particularly in run-stopping situations. Adebawore’s competency in gap control and reading blocks, as well as his ability to play head-up on tackles, make him an intriguing prospect to shore up that weakness. On top of that, head coach Dan Campbell and his coaching staff value versatility, which could allow Adebawore to showcase his range of skills and alignments as both a run-stopper and a pass rusher across the defensive line.

Chicago Bears

The Bears had one of the worst defensive lines in the NFL last year and haven’t done enough in free agency to consider the needs there filled. Chicago has a glaring need for pass-rushing help after last season with rookie safety Jaquan Brisker leading the team with just four sacks. 

Adebawore could be a great addition to their defense as a potential edge rusher who can also line up in the interior. With his size and quickness, he has the potential to generate pressure against opposing quarterbacks, disrupt offensive lines and make a significant impact in the pass rush from wherever he lines up.

Cleveland Browns

Cleveland added some big names to their defensive line in the offseason with the signings of defensive tackle Dalvin Tomlinson and defensive end Ogbonnia Okoronkwo to pair with Jordan Elliott and Myles Garrett. However, Adebawore could still be a valuable addition to the team as a younger defensive lineman to develop behind those two newcomers. He’s a versatile defensive lineman that uses his size, build, and athleticism to win from wherever he plays and could be a dominant force on the defensive line in the future. 

Additionally, his versatility to play multiple positions on the line could make him an asset in the Browns’ defensive schemes. Developing Adebawore behind established players like Tomlinson, Okoronkwo, Garrett, and Elliott could give the Browns a talented and deep defensive line for years to come.

New Orleans Saints

The Saints could use Adebawore to address some of their biggest current defensive needs. With Marcus Davenport gone and Cameron Jordan in the final year of his deal, the Saints are in need of a pass-rushing defensive end who can also provide depth on the interior. 

Adebawore’s ability to stop the run and rush the passer from the interior and on the edge would make him an ideal fit for the Saints’ defense. He could start his NFL career in a rotational role before the Saints hone his skills and help him develop into a potential every-down defender on the interior to maximize his versatility.