Should the Chargers draft Cashius Howell?
One of the most contentious prospects in the 2026 NFL Draft is Texas A&M edge rusher Cashius Howell. His explosiveness rushing the passer is evident, but his historic lack of arm length leaves scouts questioning his impact. Regardless of this, NFL analyst Eric Edholm had the Los Angeles Chargers selecting Howell at pick 22. This price is steep with the uncertainties surrounding him, but the potential is undeniable.
Edholm recognizes the question marks surrounding Howell’s arms. However, he believes that the talent surrounding him is far greater than the concerns.
“The offensive line still needs help, but it might be too hard for the Chargers to pass up on a high-energy rusher, short arms be damned,” Edholm wrote. “Howell can learn from Khalil Mack and serve as Los Angeles' third pass-rush option as a rookie.”
Before evaluating Howell, it’s important to understand the extent of his lack of arm length. He measured in at the NFL Scouting Combine with 30¼” arms, which would be the shortest by any defensive end drafted in the first round since at least 1999. To put this in perspective, Reuben Bain would also have the title of the shortest arms, but his measurements were ⅝” bigger at 30⅞”. This is a serious concern and will heavily impact Howell’s draft stock.
Even with all of this, he’s still an enticing prospect.
What makes Howell an intriguing player is his explosiveness as a pass rusher. He has elite burst off the line and often immediately beats the tackle. Additionally, he’s a triple-threat pass rusher, which means he can win with speed around the edge, technique, and power.
Although he thrives at all three, Howell’s best instances come from winning around the edge. His aforementioned first step, paired with absurd flexibility and bend create highlight-level plays where the opposing tackle stands no chance. This ability allows him to reach the quarterback instantly and leaves him little chance to escape.
Another bonus is Howell’s refinement as a pass rusher. The former Aggie has multiple developed moves, including a club, spin, rip, and many more. This will help ease the transition to the next level as he can fall back on these when engaged with a blocker.
Howell’s fit with the Chargers is ideal because he doesn’t have to be a day-one starter. He can learn behind Tuli Tuipulotu and Khalil Mack, only playing on obvious passing downs until he develops more strength as a run defender. This can help hide his weaknesses and let him impact the game to his fullest extent.
Overall, the decision on where to draft Cashius Howell will be debated until his name is called. However, the Chargers are an enticing first-round option if he goes on the opening day. Regardless of his historic lack of arm length, he’s an explosive and developed pass rusher who can provide immediate impact to a defense.