Syracuse defensive end Fadil Diggs enjoyed a breakout campaign in 2024 after transferring from Texas A&M. Diggs recorded 7.5 sacks and 14.5 tackles for loss. He was disruptive as a pass rusher and run stopper, and also put forth an outstanding performance at the NFL Combine with a 4.57-second 40-yard dash and 10-foot-1 broad jump at 257 pounds.
Diggs recently spoke exclusively with The Draft Network. Diggs discussed transferring from Texas A&M to Syracuse, his pass-rush arsenal, performance at the combine, which teams are showing interest in his services, and more.
JM: You had a breakout year after deciding to transfer from Texas A&M to Syracuse. You recorded 14.5 tackles for loss and 7.5 sacks. What allowed you to hit the ground running at a new program?
Fadil Diggs: I just felt like I was ready to take steps forward as a run stopper and pass rusher. I was also asked to drop in coverage a lot more. I just became a more well-rounded defender in general.
JM: I'm excited to discuss your pass-rush arsenal with you. That was a lot of backfield production in 2024. What are your go-to moves and counters?
Fadil Diggs: I set everything up with speed. I love converting speed to power as well. The club-rip is definitely one of my go-to moves. I counter with sheer strength and power.
JM: If you could hand-pick the QB for your first career sack, who would you choose and why?
Fadil Diggs: That’s a good question. I would probably go with Lamar Jackson for my first career sack. Everybody wants to sack Lamar Jackson. He’s so elusive in the pocket. He’s tough to get down. I gotta go with him.
JM: He’s so elusive. You recently put forth a phenomenal performance at the NFL Combine. You ran a fantastic 4.57 40 at 257 pounds. You leaped a 10-foot-1 broad. Did scouts offer good feedback?
Fadil Diggs: Yeah, scouts were thrilled. It was great for me to put up those numbers at the NFL Combine. I always knew I was a great athlete. I knew I could put forth that sort of performance. I loved being a part of that athletic showcase. Going out there and running in the 4.5s, jumping a 10-foot-1 broad, I’m proud of that because I trained hard leading up.
It was great that I was able to do that in front of all 32 teams. I showcased my athleticism. The scouts and coaches took notice. They know I can do a lot of things for their defense. It was a very satisfying experience.
JM: Do you feel like you're a three-down lineman at the next level? Do teams see you playing an early-down run-stopping role?
Fadil Diggs: I’m absolutely comfortable in the run game. I’m always working to improve every aspect of my game. I love being physical. I’m definitely capable of stopping the run. I welcome that violence in the trenches.
JM: Do you have any team visits, virtual meetings, or private workouts coming up?
Fadil Diggs: I’ve had a bunch of meetings on Zoom. I’m meeting with the Giants, Cardinals, Lions, Packers, Saints, and Jaguars. I have a bunch of meetings.
JM: There’s a lot of interest in you and it’s easy to see why. We've appreciated your time today. What kinda impact is Fadil Diggs going to make at the next level?
Fadil Diggs: I’m going to make a big impact for our defense. I’m always going to put my best foot forward. I’m going to develop into a leader. I’m excited to learn from the veterans. I’m going to take advantage of my opportunity to become a dominant force at the next level.
