NFL Draft 2026 Scouting Report for Duke Edge Vincent Anthony Jr.

Matt HolderApr 16, 2026

Vincent Anthony Jr. fits the definition of a "toolsy" prospect among edge-rushers, possessing a great frame with excellent length and impressive athleticism. Those traits should create intrigue among defensive line coaches thanks to his developmental upside.

A 4-star recruit in the 2022 high school class, Anthony started as a true freshman and 41 out of 49 career games at Duke. He racked up 103 tackles, 29 tackles for loss, 15 sacks, eight passes defended and a forced fumble as a Blue Devil.

The Durham, North Carolina native had impressive early production this past season, recording 13 TFLs and 7.5 sacks en route to an honorable mention All-ACC bid.

Matt Holder has been a part of B/R's Scouting Department for four seasons. He also writes about the Las Vegas Raiders and NFL draft for SB Nation's Silver and Black Pride, and co-hosts a YouTube Channel, Tape Don't Lie, providing film breakdowns and more draft prospect analysis.

Where He Wins

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COLLEGE FOOTBALL: NOV 01 Duke at Clemson

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- Anthony has the prototypical frame for a professional edge, with very good length and size. He also has room for growth if needed.

- Good overall athlete whose burst off the line of scrimmage stands out to beat offensive tackles with speed around the edge.

- Also displays impressive change-of-direction skills to win across the tackle's face as a pass-rusher.

- Solid at setting up his pass-rush moves by stemming inside to win outside or vice versa.

- Good bend and angles when rushing the passer to take efficient paths toward the quarterback. This approach, combined with his speed, also helps him make tackles near the line of scrimmage when unblocked on the backside of zone runs.

- Flashes the ability to win with power as pass-rusher via turning speed to power and with a long-arm move.

Areas of Improvement

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- Anthony struggles to hold his ground and set the edge against offensive linemen, putting him into the "designated pass-rusher" category rather than being an every-down contributor.

- Often late with his hands in both phases of the game, resulting in him taking on blocks with his shoulder or allowing the offensive lineman to make the first significant contact when rushing the passer.

- Doesn't work the hands after contact as a pass-rusher, either, and didn't show any effective counter moves if he doesn't win initially.

- Isn't strong and violent enough when working a cross-chop move to knock the offensive tackle's hands down, preventing him from getting clean wins with the move.

- Pass-rush production significantly dropped off in 2025 as Duke got further into its ACC schedule and the competition level rose. He had 6.5 sacks in Weeks 1-6 but just one in the final seven games of the campaign.