2026 NFL Draft Scouting Report: Ricky Freymond, DE, Western Colorado University

If you are looking for a small school sleeper look no further than Western Colorado. Yes, Austin Ekeler’s Alma Mater has another player on NFL scouts radar.

That player is Ricky Freymond a 6’5″, 265-pound redshirt senior defensive end from Western Colorado University. 

In 2024, he emerged as one of the most dominant defenders in NCAA Division II football, leading the nation in tackles for loss (24.5) and tying for second in sacks (12.0). His exceptional performance earned him multiple accolades, including the D2Football.com Defensive Player of the Year and the D2CCA Ron Lenz National Defensive Player of the Year.

Career Statistics

• 2024: 69 tackles (34 solo), 24.5 tackles for loss, 12.0 sacks, 2 forced fumbles, 2 blocked kicks
• 2023: 33 tackles, 14 tackles for loss, 10 sacks, 4 forced fumbles
• Career: 24.5 sacks, setting a new program record for Western Colorado University

Strengths

• Elite Production: Freymond’s 24.5 tackles for loss and 12.0 sacks in 2024 not only led the RMAC but also ranked at the top nationally in Division II
• Versatility: Beyond pass rushing, he contributed significantly on special teams with two blocked field goals and forced two fumbles during the season
• High Motor and Play Recognition: His ability to disrupt plays consistently is evident from his performance against South Dakota Mines, where he recorded 10 tackles, 5 tackles for loss, 3 sacks, and a blocked field goal. He has great size and lateral quickness.
• Academic Excellence: Freymond balances athletics with academics, earning First-Team Academic All-RMAC honors with a 3.56 GPA in Business Administration

Areas for Improvement

• Level of Competition: Playing in Division II, Freymond faced less formidable opponents compared to Division I athletes. Assessing his adaptability to higher competition levels will be crucial.
• Pass Coverage Experience: Primarily utilized as a pass rusher, there’s limited data on his abilities in pass coverage situations.

Projection

Freymond’s combination of size, athleticism, and production positions him as a promising prospect for professional leagues. While transitioning from Division II to the professional level presents challenges, his track record suggests he has the potential to develop into a valuable asset on the defensive line. I could see him being drafted in the mid to late rounds with another amazing season in 2025.