Buffalo Bills: Host Standout All-Big 12 Run-Stopper

According to Ryan Fowler, the Bills will host Texas Tech Red Raiders defensive tackle Lee Hunter for a 30-visit. Hunter is an elite run-stopper and developing pass rusher with limited production, recording only 7.5 career sacks in college. After previously weighing 330 pounds during the 2025 season, he recently slimmed down to 318 pounds at the NFL Scouting Combine. It is unclear whether he will remain at that weight, but the weight loss would improve his stamina, quickness, and pass-rushing ability, allowing him to become an every-down defender rather than playing solely on running downs.

Hunter did not test well at the NFL Combine, recording a poor vertical jump of 21.5 inches, way below the 29-30-inch average, and a 4.07 RAS. This has caused his draft stock to plummet, potentially dropping him to the third round.

Here’s a quick review of his 2025 campaign

Lee Hunter transferred to Texas Tech in 2025 after spending his first three seasons with UCF. Hunter enjoyed a solid senior campaign, recording 41 tackles, 10.5 TFLs, five quarterback hits, 2.5 sacks, and one forced fumble across 14 games, earning First-Team All-Big 12 and Third-Team All-American honors. He also posted 26 pressures, a 10.6% pass-rush win rate, 23 run stops, an 11.9% stop rate, and a 9.8% missed tackle rate.

Hunter wrapped up his four-year college career, totaling 172 tackles, 32 tackles for loss, 17 quarterback hits, 7.5 sacks, and one forced fumble in 52 games.

Here’s Lance Zierlein’s scouting report

“Hunter is a two-gapping nose tackle for odd or even fronts. He has the size, strength and length to do battle in the heart of the trenches but requires better block take-on technique to sit firmer in his grass. He won’t win in the gaps, but he can stack and shed single blocks or slide and stabilize his run fit against zone blocks. Hunter’s girth and length are advantages when aligning over the center as a run defender.

“He doesn’t have enough quickness or skill as a rusher to see many passing downs, but he can dent the pocket with his power. Hunter projects as an early down space-eater who can make interior offensive linemen work for their gaps.”

He projects as an average starter.