Jahvaree Ritzie is a 6'4", 290-pound defensive tackle from Kernersville, North Carolina, who declared for the 2025 NFL Draft following a standout collegiate career at the University of North Carolina. A graduate student, Ritzie played for the Tar Heels from 2021 to 2024, earning Third-Team All-ACC honors in his final season. In 2024, he recorded 40 total tackles, 6.5 sacks, one interception returned for a touchdown, and one forced fumble. Notably, he was named the Outland Trophy National Player of the Week and ACC Defensive Lineman of the Week after a dominant performance against Minnesota, where he tallied three sacks and six total tackles.
Ritzie's college career was marked by consistent improvement and versatility. Over his four seasons, he appeared in 39 games, accumulating 138 total tackles, 9.0 sacks, and two forced fumbles. His ability to disrupt the quarterback and contribute to both the pass rush and run defense made him a key component of the Tar Heels' defensive line. Ritzie's combination of size, strength, and athleticism positions him as a promising prospect for NFL teams seeking to bolster their defensive front.
