1. Ckelby Givens: Ckelby Givens is a force to be reckoned with on the defensive line. Last season, he led the SWAC in tackles for loss with 27.5 stops, showcasing his ability against opposing offenses. He was ranked second in sacks with 12; with his relentless pursuit of the quarterback and 99 total tackles under his belt, he helped Southern capture the SWAC West Division Championship, earning them a spot against Jackson State in the 2024 SWAC Championship. His impressive stats earned him 2024 Co-Defensive Player of the Year, 2024 All-SWAC First Team Defense, 2025 Preseason All-SWAC Defense, and 2025 Preseason Defensive Player of the Year.

2. Jeremiah Williams: Jeremiah Williams had an impressive season last year. The redshirt senior had 58 tackles, including 22 solo stops, 7.5 tackles for loss, 2 sacks, and 4 hurries. He played all 14 games, recording one tackle per game on average. On September 21, Williams made seven tackles against Grambling State and had a season-high of nine tackles against Florida A&M. Later that season, Williams was named a 2024 FCS Football Central All-American and helped the Tigers capture the SWAC West Division Championship, SWAC Championship, and Cricket Celebration Bowl, marking Jackson State's first bowl win. Williams was named the 2024 Cricket Celebration Bowl Defensive Most Valuable Player.

3. Bryce Cage: Last season, Cage established himself as one of the best defensive linemen in the SWAC. He had 48 tackles, 10.5 tackles for loss, 6.5 sacks, and 8 quarterback hurries. On September 28, 2024, he had 2 sacks and 3 tackles for loss in overtime against Prairie View A&M in the 51st Bayo Classic. He recorded nine tackles with 2.5 tackles for loss and was named Bayo Classic Defense MVP despite a 14-24 loss to Southern. His ability to penetrate and disrupt opposing offenses will make him a huge asset for the Grambling State Tigers.