Ashton Gillotte Scouting Report
By: Michael Higgins
(Image courtesy of Eric Crawford)
School: Louisville
Class: Senior
Position: EDGE
HT: 6’3
WT: 264 lbs
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Background: Ashton Gillotte is a former 3-star defensive lineman out of Boca Raton, Florida. For Boca Raton High School, Gillotte was a top 75 player at his position in the class of 2021. Gillotte played both defensive end and tight end for Boca Raton, helping them reach the state championship game during his senior year. Ashton also competed in weightlifting and reached the state championship. Ashton Gillotte committed to play for Louisville over Duke, UCF, and Pitt.
College: Gillotte made an immediate impact for the Cardinals as a true freshman, registering 8 TFLs and 4 sacks. In 2022, Gillotte was an All-ACC honorable mention and All-Academic selection. He finished his sophomore season with 7 TFLs and 6 sacks. Ashton continued his academic success in 2023, becoming an Academic All-American. He was also named First Team All-ACC after getting 11 sacks and 14.5 TFLs. Additionally, Ashton was named an All-American by multiple media outlets. Ashton was a Second Team All-ACC selection in 2024 after recording 43 tackles and 4.5 sacks.
Strengths: Ashton Gillotte is an athletic freak with the testing numbers of an offball linebacker. He can chase around the fastest quarterbacks without losing a step. He is one of the fastest edge rushers you will see in the game. He converts his speed to power with great force off the edge to win his matchups. He can win with both that power and just pure speed but also has a variety of pass rushing moves at his disposal. He is a bit lean for the position, which allows for the unmatched speed off the edge, but he is exceptionally strong for his size. Due to his frame, he has an easier time getting under the pads of offensive tackles and taking advantage of natural leverage in the phone booth. At the point of attack, Ashton has active hands. His hands are violent and strong, allowing him to deconstruct blocks and knock offensive linemen back off their foundation.
Weaknesses: Gillotte will have to prove that his athletic profile can hold up in the NFL. His lack of size for the position is rare and the guys who are in between weight classes for NFL position groups often have a tough time adapting to the NFL game. His athletic testing is off the charts, but his measurables leave plenty to be desired. He does not have long arms to push linemen back and will need to engage at the point of attack. When a lineman gets a firm grip on Gillotte, he has issues shedding the block and getting free into the backfield.
Conclusion: Ashton Gillotte has all of the athletic tools to be a nightmare to block in the NFL. His body type has succeeded in today’s NFL, he just needs to prove his athleticism can translate. He has a high motor and the technique to win consistently.
Scheme Fit: 4-3
Ideal Role: EDGE
Best Team Fits: DAL, LAC, SEA
Player Comparison: Keion White
Player Grade: Round 4 (67.3)
