He's a rather big individual and his last name is Orange so it shouldn't come as a surprise that Domonique Orange was given the nickname "Big Citrus" early in his football playing career. By ninth grade, the Kansas City, Missouri native weighed 300 pounds. He topped 400 pounds by his senior year in high school. That is when he got the "Big Citrus" nickname.
Orange lost weight and got in much better shape over his four seasons at Iowa State. He was listed at 6'4", 325 pounds last season. Orange was a four star recruit coming out of high school and after receiving All State honors, was ranked as the fourth best recruit in the state of Missouri.
He had a pretty quiet first two seasons for the Cyclones, seeing action as a reserve defensive lineman in 25 games. He did get five starts during his sophomore campaign in 2023.
Orange's breakout season came in 2024 and he ended up earning All Big 12 Honorable Mention. Last season Orange started every game and was named Third Team All Big 12. In 50 career games he totaled 66 tackles, seven for loss, one sack and 13 quarterback hurries.
Orange received an invitation to the Senior Bowl and the NFL Combine. Prior to the 2024 season, Orange was named to The Athletic's "Freaks List" as one of the most athletic big men in college football.
Joe Marino provides draft analysis for WGR. His website is thejoemarino.com and you can subscribe to his Locked On Bills Podcast. Joe shares his thoughts on Orange.
Positives:
He can really muddy up the middle. Good processing speed to go with size and power. I think that allows him to stay ahead of blocks. When you're having to defend zone runs and there are down blocks coming or guys are trying to hook and pin you inside, I think his processing skills really enable him to stay ahead of blocking schemes. Really firm anchor, and he's going to own that space, like you want a big old nose tackle to do.
Negatives:
The pass rush profile is missing here. I think he's a little underwhelming with lateral movement skills and change of direction, which will take away from some of the playmaking piece. Is he just going to be a plugger or can he make a play or two from time to time? I worry that he's just more of a plugger type player. You can see the fatigue setting in with him. As games go on, his head will start to duck on contact and his pads will get high. There's some fatigue there. There's been some weight issues to be mindful of. I think there's some concern here, but if you want that dude that's going to muddy it up and own his space, he can certainly do it.
The NFL Draft will be held April 23-25 in Pittsburgh.
If the Bills want to add at defensive tackle, there are a number of good prospects in this month's draft.
If the Bills want to add at defensive tackle, there are a number of good prospects in this month's draft.
