Appalachian State EDGE Joseph Bakhole Preseason Prospect Review

Joseph Bakhole (Edge Appalachian State)

Film Grade: 22 (Borderline Draft Prospect)

Heading into his final year of eligibility Joseph Bakhole has a chance to chase his dreams of making it to the NFL. The edge rusher has experience at ULM and Chattanooga where he flashed potential to be an impact player on the defensive line. This offseason he entered the transfer portal and committed to Appalachian State for his final season. If he refines his skills and turns his physical traits into measurable success, he could strengthen his case to be selected in the 2026 NFL Draft.

With really good top end speed, solid power, and an extremely high motor, I am expecting a big season from Bakhole. He is experienced, and last season Joseph Bakhole finished with 22 total tackles, 1.5 sacks, 1 fumble recovery. Playing in a solid Sun Belt Conference he has the chance to improve his draft stock.

It won’t be hard for a team to fall in love with Bakhole’s hustle, power, and ability to consistently lock out offensive linemen. Scouts across the league will be attracted to the idea of what he can be with the physical traits and untapped potential. If he can add a go to move is pass-rush situations, lower his pad level a little bit, and locate the ball carrier just a second quicker, he will establish himself as a solid prospect and a possible late round edge option in the 2026 draft class

Positives

• Hustles to the ball every play
• Has a nice push-pull move that works against any level of competition (Tennessee)
• Special teams experience
• Does a good job locking out arms when engaged with an offensive lineman
• Has a solid bull rush when exploding off the ball and getting into the tackles pads
• Shows good lateral explosion paired with a rip move that is effective against the run
• Has good top-end speed for an edge rusher
• Does a good job staying on the hip of the linemen in zone/pull situations
• Displays nice closing speed
• High motor

Negatives

• Limited production (1.5 sacks)
• Weaker competition
• Lacks a go-to move as a pass rusher
• Needs to locate the ball carrier quicker after getting extension on the offensive lineman
• Pad level can get too high at times
• Flexibility could be improved, which would allow for better bend

Final Thoughts

Joseph Bakhole is a talented player at a premium position. He has shown a lot of growth throughout his collegiate career and is set to make his biggest jump yet. If he can increase his production to somewhere between five to six sacks, he’ll give himself a real shot at being drafted. He is everything you want as a teammate; he just needs to improve the little things. You can tell he wants to win and is willing to do whatever is asked of him to help out his team. Competing against some really solid teams next year, Bakhole has a chance to put himself on the map. Watch out for Joseph Bakhole next season!

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