The 2024 Senior Bowl is just around the corner, marking the transition from the end of the NFL season to the start of the talent acquisition period for the upcoming NFL Draft. This year’s Senior Bowl, held in Mobile, Alabama, promises to be an exciting event with several top prospects showcasing their skills. Let’s take a closer look at some of the key storylines and how you can watch the game.
Date, Time, and Location
The Senior Bowl will take place on Saturday, February 3, at 1 p.m. ET. The venue for the game is Hancock Whitney Stadium in Mobile, Alabama. If you can’t make it to the stadium, you can catch all the action on NFL Network or stream it live on fuboTV.
Underclassmen Welcome
In a new development, the Reese’s Senior Bowl has opened its doors to underclassmen prospects who have declared for the NFL Draft, regardless of whether they have completed their degree requirements. This means that even more talented players will be participating in this year’s game.
Top Prospects to Watch
One player to keep an eye on is UCLA edge rusher Laiatu Latu, who is CBSSports.com’s top-rated prospect in this week’s game. With back-to-back seasons of 10+ sacks, Latu has the potential to be a top-10 overall selection in the upcoming draft. Other notable prospects ranked in the top 50 overall include Oregon State offensive tackle Taliese Fuaga, Toledo cornerback Quinyon Mitchell, Penn State cornerback Kalen King, and Missouri cornerback Ennis Rakestraw.
Quarterbacks Showdown
One of the most intriguing storylines of the Senior Bowl is the matchup between quarterbacks Michael Penix Jr. and Bo Nix. This will be their third meeting this season, and both quarterbacks have a lot riding on this game. With USC’s Caleb Williams, North Carolina’s Drake Maye, and LSU’s Jayden Daniels considered the top quarterback prospects, Penix and Nix are vying for that coveted fourth spot, which could lead to a first-round selection in the NFL Draft.
Potential Risers
Among the junior prospects participating in the Senior Bowl, Kansas edge rusher Austin Booker stands out. With his length, size, and pass-rushing abilities, Booker has the potential to make a significant impact on the field. Another player to watch is Alabama defensive tackle Justin Eboigbe, who possesses remarkable strength and control on the line of scrimmage. Kentucky linebacker Trevin Wallace is another intriguing prospect who may be undervalued due to his decision to declare for the draft earlier than expected.
Small School Standouts
While the Senior Bowl features many Power 5 prospects, there are also several standout players from smaller schools. Keep an eye on Houston Christian pass rusher Jalyx Hunt, New Hampshire running back Dylan Laube, Virginia State cornerback Willie Drew, and Southeast Missouri State wide receiver Ryan Flournoy. These players may not have received as much attention, but they have the potential to make a big impact.
Coaching Staffs
The Senior Bowl has implemented a new coaching format called ‘Coach Up,’ where coaches are given the opportunity to serve in higher positions than their current roles. This allows them to gain valuable experience in new positions. For this year’s game, the American team will be led by Tennessee Titans assistant head coach/defensive line coach Terrell Williams, while the National team will be coached by New York Jets defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich.
Looking Ahead to the NFL Draft
The 2024 NFL Draft is scheduled to take place from April 25-27 in Detroit. If you’re interested in more draft coverage, be sure to visit CBSSports.com, where you can find updated draft orders, mock drafts, and profiles of eligible prospects.
The Senior Bowl serves as a crucial opportunity for prospects to showcase their skills and impress NFL scouts and personnel. With top prospects, intriguing storylines, and a new coaching format, this year’s Senior Bowl promises to be an exciting event for football fans and draft enthusiasts alike. Make sure to tune in and witness the future stars of the NFL in action.