Rueben Bain Jr. didn’t just make noise in 2025 - he flat-out dominated. The Miami edge rusher has officially cemented himself as one of the most disruptive forces in college football, landing at No. 2 on Pro Football Focus’ College Football 101 list of the top players from the season. That’s not just high praise - that’s elite company.
What sets Bain apart? Let’s start with the raw production.
He led all players in quarterback hurries with 68. That’s not just a good season - that’s a relentless, every-down problem for opposing offenses.
And it wasn’t just about getting close. According to PFF, Bain also led the nation in total pressures with 83, a stat that speaks to his consistent ability to collapse pockets and force quarterbacks into uncomfortable decisions.
That kind of pressure changes games.
But Bain’s game isn’t one-dimensional. He’s not just pinning his ears back and going after the quarterback.
His 86.2 run-defense grade ranked ninth in the FBS, showing he’s just as effective setting the edge and blowing up run plays as he is chasing down quarterbacks. PFF’s wins above average metric even tagged him as the most valuable edge defender in the country.
That’s the kind of all-around impact that gets NFL front offices buzzing.
And speaking of the NFL - Bain’s draft stock is on a rocket trajectory. He’s currently sitting atop PFF’s big board for the 2026 NFL Draft, and ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr. has him ranked No. 7 overall. That puts him squarely in the top-10 conversation, with a legitimate shot at being a top-five pick come April.
Kiper’s breakdown of Bain reads like a scouting dream. Power?
Check. Hand technique?
Some of the best in the class. He consistently wins with a violent rip move and has the savvy to mix in counters when needed.
But what really jumps off the tape is his motor. Bain doesn’t coast.
He’s full throttle, every snap. Whether he’s chasing down a scrambling quarterback or shedding a block to stuff a run, the effort is always there.
And the numbers back it all up. In 16 games this season, Bain racked up 54 total tackles, 15.5 tackles for loss, and 9.5 sacks. He added 30 solo tackles, one forced fumble, and even pulled down an interception - showing off his awareness and versatility in space.
Bain’s 2025 campaign wasn’t just impressive - it was a statement. He’s not just one of the best edge rushers in college football.
He’s one of the best players, period. And if his trajectory continues, there’s a good chance we’ll be hearing his name called very early on draft night.