Ben Duncum

Physical Profile

Possesses an elite frame for a defensive end at 6-foot-5, 250 pounds, with a reported 81-inch wingspan. His background as a standout thrower in track and field (shot put and discus) provides excellent athletic context and speaks to his baseline power and explosive traits. He has significant bulking capacity and will easily add 20-25 pounds of muscle in a college strength program, suggesting a future as a strong-side defensive end or even an interior player in certain schemes. His build is described as higher-cut, which can occasionally lead to playing with a high pad level.

Play Style

On film, Duncum is a power-oriented defensive lineman who excels at the point of attack. He uses his length and strength to control blockers and is a reliable run-stuffer. His motor is a defining trait, as he frequently pursues plays down the line of scrimmage and to the whistle. While not a polished pass rusher, he shows flashes of disruption through bull rushes and sheer effort. In his junior season, he recorded 61 tackles, five tackles for loss, and two sacks.

Strengths

• Frame and Growth Potential: Prototypical Power Four conference size with the frame to carry 275-285 pounds effectively, offering scheme versatility.
• Run Defense: Shows raw power at the point of attack and the ability to set a hard edge. Plays with a hot motor, consistently making effort plays and showing up as a solid presence in the run game.
• Multi-Sport Athleticism: State-level competitor in shot put and discus, which translates directly to functional strength and explosiveness on the football field. This background suggests a higher ceiling for physical development.
• Scheme Versatility: Has the length and frame to develop into a traditional 4-3 strong-side end or a 3-4 defensive end, giving defensive coordinators flexibility.

Areas to Improve

• Pad Level: Due to his higher-cut build, he sometimes plays too upright, which can negate his natural strength advantage. Needs to consistently work on sinking his hips to play with better leverage.
• Pass Rush Technique: Currently relies more on motor and raw power than a refined pass-rush plan. Will need to develop a repertoire of moves, including hand usage and counters, to become a consistent threat against college-level offensive tackles. Is not considered a natural edge bender.
• Initial Get-Off: While powerful, his first step is not elite. Improving his explosiveness off the snap will be crucial to maximizing his pass-rush potential.

College Projection

Projects as a Power Four multi-year starter with his best football ahead of him. Given his frame and current skill set, he will likely contribute early in his career on run downs. His developmental arc will be tied to his ability to refine his pass-rushing technique. A redshirt year to focus on strength and conditioning and technical development could unlock significant potential, making him a potential impact player by his second or third year on campus.

Best Fit

A defensive scheme that utilizes a 3-4 front, where he can play as a defensive end (4i or 5-technique), is an ideal fit. This allows him to use his size and power against interior linemen and tight ends in the run game. His skill set is maximized in a program known for developing defensive linemen physically and technically, such as his committed school, Kentucky.