CJ Fite: Arizona State's Defensive Enforcer Ready to Wreck the Big 12

When Arizona State's defense takes the field in 2025, one of the first names that opposing offenses will need to account for is CJ Fite. The junior defensive tackle has steadily carved out a reputation as a relentless interior presence—one who doesn’t just eat up blockers but actively disrupts offensive game plans. As ASU gears up for a pivotal Big 12 campaign, Fite’s role is primed to grow from solid contributor to potential game-wrecker.

Ties to #TexastoTempe Movement

CJ Fite’s journey to Arizona State is a testament to the growing #TexastoTempe movement that has seen a surge of elite Texas talent making their way to the Valley. Hailing from Tatum, Texas, Fite was one of Kenny Dillingham’s early Texas recruits, helping establish vital recruiting pipelines into the Lone Star State. His decision to commit to ASU sparked momentum that’s continued to bring in high-upside defensive prospects from Texas, all eager to make their mark in Tempe. For Fite, representing Texas pride on a national stage while elevating ASU’s defensive reputation has become a point of personal and team pride.

The Unsung Anchor of ASU’s Defensive Line

In 2024, Fite’s contributions often went unnoticed. Rotating in a deep defensive line room, he tallied 30 tackles, 4.5 tackles for loss, and 2 sacks—modest numbers on paper, but a deeper dive into film reveals his true impact. Fite routinely absorbed double teams, freed up edge rushers like Myles Rowser and Xavion Alford to make plays, and was a key reason ASU’s run defense improved dramatically in the second half of the season. His fumble recovery touchdown against Kansas was a momentum-shifting moment that showcased his hustle and play recognition.

CJ Fite celebrates during the Peach Bowl after Texas place Kicker Bert Auburn misses the go ahead FG. Kevin C Knox/ Getty Images

Entering 2025, the expectation is for Fite to step into a full-time starting role, and with that, his production is expected to spike. ASU’s defensive scheme under Brian Ward leans heavily on disruptive interior play, and Fite has the tools—powerful hands, a low center of gravity, and quick first-step burst—to thrive as a havoc creator inside. His off-season focus has been on refining his hand placement and improving his pass-rush counters, areas that could unlock a higher ceiling of production.

Emerging as a Leader in the Locker Room

Beyond the box score, Fite’s impact is deeply felt in ASU’s culture shift. Known for his high-motor play and blue-collar work ethic, he’s become a respected voice among teammates. Head Coach Kenny Dillingham has praised Fite’s accountability and daily approach, often citing him as a tone-setter during practice.

“CJ’s the kind of guy who shows up every day and works like he’s a walk-on trying to earn a spot,” Dillingham said during spring camp. “That attitude is contagious.”

Fite’s leadership goes beyond the practice field. He is actively involved with ASU’s Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) and serves on the Pat Tillman Leadership Council, mentoring younger players and embodying the program’s core values. With veterans graduating and NFL-bound, the leadership void on ASU’s defense is real—and Fite has been quick to fill it. His vocal presence in the locker room and example on the field make him a critical figure as the Sun Devils push to elevate their defensive identity.

Fite has proven his leadership ability, so much so, it is seen evidently in the Peach Bowl loss to Texas where Fite has become a defensive voice on the team

Is a Breakout Season Coming?

Statistically, the 2025 season presents the perfect storm for Fite to take a significant leap. He’s no longer an underclassman fighting for snaps; he’s a featured piece in a defense that will rely on him to anchor the interior.

A realistic projection could see Fite posting 40+ tackles, 8-10 tackles for loss, and 4-5 sacks if he continues to progress and stays healthy. His ability to collapse the pocket from the inside also benefits ASU’s opportunistic secondary, making him a catalyst for the entire defensive unit.

What’s more, Fite has the athletic upside to be more than just a run-stuffer. His quickness off the snap allows him to penetrate gaps and generate interior pressure—traits highly valued in today’s NFL. During spring scrimmages, coaches noted his improved ability to disengage from blocks and maintain gap integrity, a development that could be key in ASU’s efforts to contain high-octane Big 12 offenses.

NFL Draft Outlook: Sleeper with Rising Stock

As of now, CJ Fite isn’t generating widespread draft buzz—but that could change quickly with a standout 2025 campaign. His NFL projection currently sits as a Day 3 pick (Rounds 5-7), but scouts are monitoring his development closely.

At 6-foot-2, 305 pounds, Fite doesn’t possess prototypical length, but his leverage, explosiveness, and motor make him a fit for teams running aggressive 4-3 or hybrid fronts. His most natural NFL comparison? Think Poona Ford (Buffalo Bills)—an undersized but powerful defensive tackle who turned a late-round projection into a successful pro career through sheer effort and disruption. Additionally, Fite’s leadership intangibles and locker room presence add value that often goes underappreciated during the pre-draft process.

Fite celebrating a massive TFL in the Peach Bowl vs Texas 2024

If Fite can add more pass-rush consistency to his game, his stock could rise into the Day 2 conversation (Rounds 3-4) by draft season. His work ethic and steady improvement trajectory suggest that he has the capacity to climb draft boards rapidly, especially if he can deliver statement performances in marquee Big 12 matchups.

NFL Comparison: Ceiling and Floor Projections

In projecting CJ Fite’s NFL future, the comparison that consistently arises is Poona Ford of the Buffalo Bills. Like Ford, Fite is a bit undersized for a traditional NFL defensive tackle at 6-foot-0, but makes up for it with exceptional leverage, powerful hand usage, and relentless motor. Ford carved out a successful pro career as an undrafted free agent through effort, technique, and disruptive play—traits Fite mirrors closely.

Fite’s NFL ceiling could resemble that of Grady Jarrett, the two-time Pro Bowl defensive tackle for the Atlanta Falcons. While Jarrett also entered the league with questions about his size, his explosive first step and elite gap penetration turned him into a perennial force on the interior. If Fite continues refining his pass-rush counters and maintains his high motor, he possesses the upside to develop into a disruptive three-down defensive tackle who can command double teams and still create havoc.

On the floor side, Fite profiles as a rotational run-stuffer who earns his keep as a reliable depth piece in a 4-3 or hybrid defensive front. Even in this scenario, his work ethic and locker room presence make him a valuable contributor, much like former Arizona State standout Renell Wren, who found a role as a depth piece in the NFL despite injuries. Regardless of where he lands, Fite’s effort and toughness virtually guarantee he’ll be a culture-setter wherever he plays.

Fite celebrating after his Big Man scoop and score Vs Wyoming in 2024 at Mountain America Stadium

The Ceiling: All-Big 12 Honors and Beyond?

With the Big 12's offensive lines presenting a diverse range of challenges—from power-run teams to high-tempo spread attacks—Fite's versatility becomes even more valuable. His ceiling is that of an All-Big 12 defensive tackle, a player who not only anchors ASU’s defense but becomes a name offensive coordinators must specifically gameplan for.

For a Sun Devils team aiming to assert itself in its new conference, CJ Fite’s development could be a linchpin in that journey. If his growth continues on its current trajectory, don’t be surprised if his name is called early on NFL Draft weekend, solidifying his journey from under-the-radar recruit to ASU’s defensive foundation.