Key pre-draft evaluation events, the Senior Bowl and Shrine Bowl, have recently taken place or are upcoming, serving as critical platforms for NFL draft prospects to demonstrate their skills to scouts and general managers. The 101st Shrine Bowl concluded with a West team victory in Frisco, Texas, highlighting several prospects. Meanwhile, the Senior Bowl is scheduled for Saturday, January 31, with primary evaluation work occurring during its practice week and interviews. Both events provide initial exposure for NFL coaches to the draft class and represent a final padded competition for players before the testing phase of scouting.
Senior Bowl Preview and Key Storylines
The Senior Bowl, scheduled for January 31, focuses its primary evaluation work during the preceding practice week and player interviews. The event serves as a platform for various prospects to influence their draft stock.
"The Senior Bowl, scheduled for January 31, focuses its primary evaluation work during the preceding practice week and player interviews."
Quarterback Evaluations
LSU quarterback Garrett Nussmeier, identified as a top quarterback in attendance, possesses a strong throwing arm and demonstrates command of the offense. His senior season was affected by offensive line and receiving consistency issues, as well as injuries. Approximately 6 feet tall and 200 pounds, Nussmeier seeks to perform at full health. North Dakota State's Cole Payton, a left-handed quarterback, has also attracted NFL attention and will compete.
Pass-Rush Group
The Senior Bowl roster includes a significant number of draftable edge rushers. Illinois' Gabe Jacas, who led the Big Ten with 11.0 sacks, is described as a quick and forceful pass rusher. Missouri's Zion Young is noted for his long and strong play, utilizing heavy hands to access the pocket. Other anticipated early-round pass rushers include Michigan’s Derrick Moore, Penn State’s Dani Dennis-Sutton, Alabama’s LT Overton, Texas Tech’s Romello Height, and Auburn’s Keyron Crawford.
Offensive Tackle Opportunities
Offensive tackles will face a demanding environment during one-on-one practice drills against the pass-rush group. Boston College left tackle Jude Bowry is anticipated to perform well at full health, characterized by his twitchiness and ease of movement. Florida’s Austin Barber and Arizona State’s Max Iheanachor are also being evaluated.
Prospects Seeking National Recognition
The Senior Bowl provides a platform for less-known prospects to make an impression. Tennessee cornerback Colton Hood is identified as a potential first-round pick. Florida defensive tackle Caleb Banks aims to improve his draft stock after a season affected by a foot injury. Georgia State wide receiver Ted Hurst is noted for his ability to create explosive plays and track the ball downfield. Other anticipated players include San Diego State cornerback Chris Johnson, LSU safety A.J. Haulcy, and Iowa guard Beau Stephens.
Small School Talents
All-star games like the Senior Bowl are particularly beneficial for non-FBS prospects to prove their capabilities against higher-level competition. Stephen F. Austin cornerback Charles Demmings is described as a fast, physical cover man who aims to disrupt routes. Dartmouth’s Delby Lemieux, an offensive lineman, is expected to transition from left tackle to center at the professional level.
Shrine Bowl Concludes with West Victory and Prospect Highlights
The West team defeated the East team 21-17 in the 101st Shrine Bowl, held Tuesday night at the Ford Center in Frisco, Texas. Iowa quarterback Mark Gronowski earned Offensive MVP honors with 86 passing yards and 28 rushing yards, while Wisconsin edge Mason Reiger was named Defensive MVP for his four tackles and three sacks.
The East initially took the lead in the fourth quarter when Duke's Wesley Williams sacked UConn quarterback Joe Fagnano in the end zone, leading to a fumble recovered for a touchdown by Aaron Hall. The West team responded with a scoring drive, culminating in Tulsa running back Dom Richardson's 3-yard touchdown run with six seconds remaining, securing the victory.
"For NFL scouts and general managers, significant evaluation occurred during the week leading up to the game."
For NFL scouts and general managers, significant evaluation occurred during the week leading up to the game. Rosters for this year's event were noted for their depth, with predictions suggesting an increase in drafted prospects compared to 51 from the previous year.
Key Standout Prospects from Shrine Bowl Week
- Quarterback: Mark Gronowski (Iowa) showcased health and strong play, including consistency in delivering downfield shots, and demonstrated scrambling ability.
- Running Backs: Chase Heidenreich (Navy) registered the fastest on-field speed at 20.01 miles per hour, displaying a versatile skill set. He projects as a third-down weapon in the NFL.
- Wide Receivers: Skyler Bell (UConn), one of four NCAA receivers with over 100 catches last season, displayed route running and separation skills, recording a GPS speed of 20.1 MPH. Kaden Wetjen (Iowa), despite his smaller stature, was noted for being difficult to cover in drills and offers special teams value.
- Interior Linemen (DL/IOL): Dontayvion Jackson (Ohio State DT), 6-foot-5 and 328 pounds, presented a challenge for interior linemen during one-on-ones, showcasing quick feet and active hands. Jacob Smith (Arkansas DL), 6-1 and 328 pounds, consistently disrupted interior linemen, particularly in run drills. Micah Morris (Georgia IOL), 6-4 and 346 pounds, demonstrated power in both run and pass protection, anchoring effectively.
- Edge Rushers: Mason Reiger (Wisconsin) recorded three sacks and four tackles. Malachi Lawrence (UCF), 6-4 and 247 pounds, registered a 19.32 MPH GPS speed, exhibiting twitch, burst off the ball, and a range of rush moves.
- Offensive Tackle: Nick Rucci (Penn State OT), 6-8 and 310 pounds, displayed nimbleness, burst, balance, and recovery in pass-rush drills.
- Linebacker: Harold Perkins Jr. (LSU) demonstrated burst and speed in coverage.
- Tight End: Ben Raridon (Iowa State), a 6-5, 244-pound target, demonstrated hand strength and consistently got open over the middle, reaching 19.2 MPH on the GPS.