A.J. Holmes Jr. has the traits, but can his production rise to the point where he can be a true difference-maker for the Red Raiders?
Anthony Holmes Jr.'s first year at Texas Tech was a successful one, but he might have flown under the radar.
Granted, not many defensive tackles get on the highlight reels, but they do a lot of the dirty work, and for Holmes Jr., he had a career year.
Transferring to the Red Raiders in 2025 after three years in Houston, Anthony produced his best-ever return in college football.
He posted 4.5 sacks and 9.0 tackles for loss, both career highs, and we know how loaded the defensive line was last season, yet Holmes Jr. still managed not only to see the field but also to be productive.
Now, as we turn to 2026 and a handful of Texas Tech's studs are in the NFL, a great opportunity has presented itself for Holmes Jr. to firmly establish himself ahead of being drafted.
But there are some lingering questions surrounding Holmes Jr.
ESPN's Matt Miller wonders whether Anthony can be as productive without the stars alongside him, but if he can, he's a first-round prospect in the NFL Draft.
"He started 2025 as a backup to Skyler Gill-Howard before starting the final eight games due to injuries," Miller wrote. "Holmes was good enough to earn various All-America honors on Texas Tech's loaded defensive line, but he will be the spotlight player this season with David Bailey, Lee Hunter and Romello Height off to the NFL.
"If Holmes can up his production from last season, when he had nine tackles for loss and 4.5 sacks, he'll be a first-round prospect."
Now, it is hard for a defensive tackle to stand out in the same manner as a pass rusher does, but Holmes Jr. can stand out in his own way.
Anchoring the defensive line, clogging up running lanes, and making things easier for his teammates. Yes, he'll quarterback hunt as well.
Possessing good speed and power, Holmes Jr. has traits that will translate to the NFL, and the 2026 season is all about showcasing those traits without others stealing the limelight.
It's a big chance for Anthony to put himself into first-round calculations.
Let's see if he's up to the task.
