Boosting Draft Chances: Top Performers at Each Position During Senior Bowl Practices
The Senior Bowl is a crucial event for college football players looking to boost their draft chances and impress NFL scouts. While being crowned a top practice player doesn’t guarantee being the first off the board, it certainly helps in catching the attention of teams. Several players stood out during this week’s practices, showcasing their skills and making a solid impression on evaluators.
Quarterback:
The quarterback position didn’t have any standout performers during the Senior Bowl practices. While Washington’s Michael Penix Jr. and Oregon’s Bo Nix had their moments, their overall play didn’t live up to the hype. However, Spencer Rattler from Oklahoma showed promise and took a step towards improving his draft grade. Rattler displayed outstanding arm talent, delivering well-timed throws with tight spirals. He also showed the ability to layer throws, giving his receivers opportunities to make plays. Tulane’s Michael Pratt was a close second, demonstrating a natural feel for timing and placement.
Running Back:
Dylan Laube from New Hampshire emerged as the top running back during the Senior Bowl practices. While Kentucky’s Ray Davis and USC’s MarShawn Lloyd caught the ball well, Laube was on another level. His quickness on pivot routes and ability to snare the football consistently put linebackers in conflict. Laube also showcased his versatility by beating cornerbacks downfield in wide receiver drills.
Wide Receiver:
Roman Wilson from Michigan stood out among the wide receivers during the Senior Bowl practices. Alongside Western Kentucky’s Malachi Corley and Georgia’s Ladd McConkey, Wilson entered the week with similar grades as one of the top three receivers. What set Wilson apart was his separating skills, winning early and late in routes. He displayed short-area quickness, long speed, and the ability to create breakpoint leverage. Florida’s Ricky Pearsall and Tulane’s Jha’Quan Jackson also made a strong impression and are expected to be productive pros.
Tight End:
Darius Robinson from Penn State was the most dominant defensive tackle throughout the week. With his size and natural power, Robinson consistently bullied offensive linemen and disrupted plays. He displayed an array of different moves and won from various alignments. Robinson’s performance solidified his status as a top prospect, likely requiring a first-round pick for teams interested in acquiring him.
Offensive Tackle:
Tyler Guyton from Oklahoma was the most consistent offensive tackle during the Senior Bowl practices. At 6-7, 328 pounds with impressive movement skills, Guyton’s frame and athleticism passed the eye test. He showcased the ability to anchor against power, re-leverage his hands, and finish plays. Guyton is expected to be taken in the top half of the first round.
Guard:
Haynes from Wake Forest was the most consistent guard throughout the practices. While not a top-tier athlete, Haynes positioned himself well with his lower body and effectively used his long arms and strong hands. He demonstrated balance and the ability to finish plays with authority. Haynes improved his chances of being drafted on Day 2 with his performance.
Center:
Powers-Johnson from Ohio State was the clear standout at the center position. His physical traits and reaction skills were outstanding, playing balanced through contact and displaying play strength and quickness. Despite a nagging hamstring issue that forced him to exit early, Powers-Johnson solidified his status as a projected top-25 pick.
Defensive Tackle:
T’Vondre Sweat from Texas A&M was the most dominant defensive tackle during the Senior Bowl practices. Despite not stepping on the scale, Sweat’s natural power allowed him to bully offensive linemen and blow up runs. His ability to sustain this level of play against an up-tempo NFL offense will determine his draft position.
Linebacker:
Bo Bauer from Notre Dame stood out among the linebackers, showcasing his ability to diagnose plays and drive towards the ball. His leadership skills and communication with teammates also set him apart. Bauer’s intangibles will be valuable assets in the draft.
Cornerback:
Andrew Mitchell from Cincinnati was the standout cornerback during the Senior Bowl practices. He consistently locked down receivers with patience in press coverage, balance in transition, and disruptive playmaking abilities. Mitchell’s performance elevated his draft stock and solidified his position as one of the top cornerbacks in this year’s draft class.
Safety:
Lewis Smith from Georgia caught the eye with his compete skills at the catch point. As a former “star” nickel player, Smith displayed comfort in negotiating space in coverage, highlighting his instincts and finishing skills. He has the potential to make an immediate impact on special teams and compete for snaps in an NFL secondary.
The Senior Bowl practices provided a platform for these players to showcase their talents and improve their draft chances. While being crowned a top practice player doesn’t guarantee success in the NFL, it certainly boosts their prospects. As the draft approaches