Missouri Adds Versatile Pass Rusher CJ May from Louisville

Missouri head coach Eli Drinkwitz has made a strong addition to his defense, landing linebacker and edge specialist CJ May from the Louisville Cardinals. May announced his commitment to the Tigers on Friday, bringing four years of eligibility to a program looking to strengthen its pass rush for the 2026 season.

A native of Highland Home, Alabama, May was highly regarded coming out of high school. Rated as a four-star prospect with a 90 score on 247Sports, he ranked as the 16th-best player from Alabama and 34th at his position nationally. Despite a dip in his ratings entering the portal—ranked 102nd at his position and 932nd in the 2025 class—May still brings significant upside to Missouri’s defense.

May is known for his versatility. He can line up as an off-ball linebacker or rush the passer as an edge player, offering flexibility to fit multiple defensive schemes. His skill set includes strong block-shedding ability, smooth movement around the edge, and proactive pass-rushing instincts.

The addition of May comes at a key time for Missouri. After finishing 2025 with an 8-5 record, including a 4-4 mark in SEC play, the Tigers are looking to retool their defensive front and generate more pressure on opposing quarterbacks in 2026.

1. Athletic Profile and Potential

CJ May’s skill set has drawn praise from recruiting analysts for his combination of strength, agility, and technique. 247Sports analyst Cooper Petagna highlighted his ability to bend the edge efficiently and generate pressure between the lines, despite some hip stiffness in his movement. May exhibits smooth, sudden movements rather than pure explosive bursts, which allows him to redirect and maintain leverage on blockers. He also shows strong hands and natural ability to disengage from blocks, a key trait for both linebackers and edge rushers. His play in space demonstrates above-average speed and football IQ. While he is not yet consistently dominant on every down, his willingness to engage physically at the point of attack suggests high developmental potential. With these attributes, May offers Missouri a player who can contribute immediately while still projecting to grow into a high-level collegiate edge presence over the next several seasons.

2. Missouri’s Defensive Outlook

Adding May strengthens a Tigers defense that has shown flashes but remains in need of playmaking pass rushers. Missouri struggled to consistently pressure quarterbacks in 2025, a weakness that May’s addition can help address. Coach Eli Drinkwitz, in his sixth season at Missouri, has kept the program bowl eligible throughout his tenure, compiling a 46-29 record. The Tigers enjoyed back-to-back 10-win seasons in 2023 and 2024, though 2025 marked a minor step back with an 8-5 finish. Missouri’s 2025 SEC performance included a 4-4 conference record, finishing eighth overall. They outperformed teams like Tennessee and LSU but trailed Vanderbilt and Oklahoma, highlighting the need for additional defensive talent to compete at a higher level. May’s arrival complements Missouri’s existing roster and provides flexibility in defensive packages. His ability to play multiple positions along the front seven allows the Tigers to adjust schemes based on opponent and situation, giving the coaching staff more tactical options for 2026.

3. Fit and Immediate Impact

May’s versatility makes him an ideal fit for Missouri’s defensive system. His ability to contribute as an edge rusher and off-ball linebacker allows him to fill multiple roles as needed, increasing the Tigers’ depth and rotation options. The Tigers’ front seven will benefit from his athleticism, block-shedding ability, and physicality, helping to create more opportunities for sacks, tackles for loss, and turnovers. Missouri’s younger players can also learn from May’s technique and experience. With four years of eligibility, May has the potential to be a cornerstone of Missouri’s defense for the next several seasons. He joins a team looking to rebound in SEC play and make a stronger push toward bowl and postseason success. Looking ahead, Missouri expects May to contribute early in his Tigers career while continuing to develop into a premier collegiate pass rusher, enhancing the program’s defensive identity.