With his selection at No. 23 overall in the NFL Draft, EDGE Malachi Lawrence is set to be out of a UCF uniform for the first time since 2020.

While his absence might be felt in the locker room and by fans on an individual level, it does not necessarily mean it is going to be a detriment to the team.

Here are three reasons why Lawrence's departure is not as bad for the Knights as one might think:

1. There is an Heir Apparent for EDGE room Player Leader

Cincinnati Bearcats quarterback Brendan Sorsby (2) runs as UCF Knights edge Isaiah Nixon (6) attempts to tackle him in the second quarter of the NCAA football game between the Cincinnati Bearcats and UCF Knights at Nippert Stadium in Cincinnati on Oct. 11, 2025.…