Myles Rowser: ASU’s Defensive 'Ghost' Ready to Haunt Big 12 Offenses in 2025
- Jordon Leon
- Aug 1
- 5 min read
When Myles “Ghost” Rowser transferred to Arizona State ahead of the 2024 season, many saw him as a solid depth addition—an experienced safety coming off a strong year at New Mexico State. By the end of the season, Rowser wasn’t just a contributor; he was a pillar of the Sun Devils' defense, earning the nickname “Ghost” for his knack of appearing in the right place at the right time.
Now, as Arizona State embarks on its second season in the Big 12 Conference, Rowser is poised to become one of the most important players on a defense eager to prove itself against a new level of competition. With the conference move comes new offensive challenges, but Rowser’s game is tailor-made for this moment.
Rowser’s 2024: A Defensive Bright Spot in Tempe
Statistically, Rowser’s first year in maroon and gold was everything ASU could have hoped for:
98 total tackles (51 solo, 47 assists)
4 tackles for loss
1.0 sack
5 passes defended
0 interceptions, but a consistent presence in coverage
Rowser’s near-100 tackle season showcased his sideline-to-sideline range, his ability to fill gaps in the run game, and his calm demeanor as a deep safety. Though he didn’t record an interception in 2024, his five pass breakups highlighted his effectiveness in limiting big plays and providing help over the top.
More importantly, his consistent tackling—with one of the lowest missed-tackle rates on the team—gave ASU a safety blanket in both run and pass defense. His performance became even more critical in tight games where defensive breakdowns had plagued ASU in previous seasons.
Projecting Rowser’s 2025 Season: The Next Step Forward
As ASU’s defensive scheme matures under head coach Kenny Dillingham and defensive coordinator Bryan Ward, Myles Rowser is expected to take on an even larger leadership role in 2025.
Given his workload and production trajectory, realistic projections for the upcoming season are:
100-110 total tackles
4-6 tackles for loss
1 sack
6-8 passes defended
1-2 interceptions
Why the jump in coverage numbers? ASU’s defensive line is expected to generate more consistent pressure, forcing hurried throws and errant decisions—an area where Rowser’s anticipation and “Ghost-like” ability to read the quarterback will be vital. Additionally, with more familiarity in ASU’s complex coverage schemes, Rowser should find himself in more playmaking positions, including roaming free safety looks and even occasional slot coverage duties.
The Sun Devils will need every bit of that production, especially as they face off against the pass-heavy offenses of the Big 12. Teams like Baylor, TCU, and Texas Tech are known for their aggressive aerial attacks, and Rowser’s ability to hold down the back end will be a crucial piece of ASU’s defensive identity.
The Big 12 Factor: How Myles Rowser Can Take Over in 2025
Myles Rowser isn’t just adjusting to Big 12 football anymore—he’s ready to assert himself as one of the premier defensive backs in the conference. After a strong first season in the Big 12, where his tackling consistency and field awareness stabilized ASU’s secondary, Rowser now has the experience and platform to become a true difference-maker.
In a league known for its wide-open offenses and aggressive aerial attacks, Rowser’s skillset is positioned to flip the narrative. His high football IQ and anticipation allow him to neutralize Big 12 offenses that thrive on confusion and tempo. With a year of conference play under his belt, he’s no longer reacting to Big 12 offenses—he’s diagnosing them in real time.
One area where Rowser can elevate his game is turnover creation. While he was a dependable coverage safety last season, the next step is turning pass breakups into interceptions and making game-changing plays in the turnover battle. ASU’s defensive front is expected to generate more pressure in 2025, which will lead to more hurried throws and opportunities for Rowser to capitalize on mistakes.
His run defense also gives ASU a tactical edge. Against mobile quarterbacks and quick perimeter plays—a staple of Big 12 offenses—Rowser’s disciplined angles and reliable tackling turn potential big gains into routine stops. These kinds of plays don’t always show up on highlight reels but are the backbone of defensive success in this conference.
Leadership-wise, Rowser’s voice will be critical. With ASU returning the most defensive starters among Power Four programs, he is now the veteran presence in the secondary who can direct traffic pre-snap, adjust alignments, and ensure the defense is unified in high-pressure moments.
The Sun Devils’ climb up the Big 12 defensive ranks won’t hinge on flashy turnover numbers alone—it will come from consistent, mistake-free execution, and that’s where Rowser thrives. But if he can start adding more splash plays—interceptions, forced fumbles, key third-down stops—Rowser has the tools to not just anchor ASU’s defense, but to become a household name across the Big 12 by season’s end.
In 2025, Rowser isn’t just aiming to keep pace with the Big 12’s offensive firepower—he’s aiming to disrupt it, dictate it, and dominate it.
NFL Draft Stock & Pro Comparisons: Where Does Rowser Stand?
Looking beyond Tempe, Rowser’s NFL future is slowly coming into focus. While he isn’t considered an early-round draft prospect at this point, his combination of experience, versatility, and tackling reliability makes him an intriguing mid-to-late round selection for the 2026 NFL Draft.
At 6'1" and roughly 210 pounds, Rowser profiles similarly to Jordan Poyer (Buffalo Bills) and Justin Simmons (formerly Denver Broncos)—safeties known for their ability to handle both deep coverage responsibilities and play inside the box.
Rowser's strengths include:
Football IQ and field vision
Solid tackling fundamentals
Positional flexibility (Free safety, Strong safety, occasional slot corner)
Dependability—rarely caught out of position
Scouts will want to see increased production in terms of turnovers—namely interceptions and forced fumbles—but Rowser’s consistency and durability will make him attractive to teams looking for a Day 3 depth piece who can contribute immediately on special teams and develop into a rotational safety.
A strong 2025 campaign, combined with a good showing in postseason All-Star games or the NFL Combine, could push his draft stock into the 4th-5th round range.
Conclusion: The "Ghost" is Ready to Lead
Myles Rowser may not be the flashiest name on Arizona State’s roster, but his impact is undeniable. As ASU steps fully into the Big 12 gauntlet, Rowser’s veteran presence and steady hand in the secondary will be pivotal. His growth from reliable tackler to potential playmaker could determine whether ASU’s defense can hold up against the conference’s offensive juggernauts.
Rowser’s nickname “Ghost” isn’t just a catchy moniker—it’s a reflection of his game: silent, relentless, and always where the ball is.
He’lll be at top of the draft in 2026. Just watch!