With Shedeur Sanders opting out of the 2025 East-West Shrine Bowl, the spotlight shifts to the Colorado Buffaloes’ offensive talent still making waves in Arlington, Texas. While Sanders may not be showcasing his skills, three of his standout teammates—LaJohntay Wester, Will Sheppard, and Jimmy Horn Jr.—are seizing the opportunity to impress NFL scouts. These players have been training together in Florida, and now they are ready to shine at the Shrine Bowl.
Showcasing Talent at the Shrine Bowl
This week, the trio is fully utilizing their Shrine Bowl invitations, and their performances are drawing attention. Each player brings a unique skill set to the table, and their contributions could be pivotal in their pursuit of a successful NFL career. Let’s take a closer look at how each of them is faring in this prestigious showcase.
Will Sheppard: The Big Play Threat
#1. Will Sheppard
Will Sheppard is a name that resonates with excitement. Standing at 6-foot-3, he possesses a remarkable catch radius and high-pointing ability, making him a nightmare for defenders. His size advantage allows him to snatch passes that others simply can’t reach, and his hands make him a legitimate big play threat.
Leaving Colorado, Sheppard recorded an impressive 13 yards per catch with six touchdowns. As a transfer from Vanderbilt, he is currently projected as a sixth-round pick. However, during the East-West Shrine Bowl practices, he has showcased his potential, demonstrating his ability to make big plays and solidifying his positional size as a significant asset.
Jimmy Horn Jr.: The Speedster
#2. Jimmy Horn Jr.
If speed is what NFL teams crave, then Jimmy Horn Jr. is a player to watch. At 5-foot-10, he has clocked a sub-4.4 40-yard dash, making him a potential steal on day three of the 2025 NFL draft. At the Shrine Bowl, he has displayed a full route tree, proving he is more than just a straight-line speedster.
Despite battling injuries this past season, Horn managed to make an impact, racking up 451 yards, with standout performances of 78 yards against Cincinnati and a jaw-dropping 198 yards against North Dakota State. His draft projection falls between rounds five and seven, and his speed could be a game-changer on gadget plays and short routes where he can maximize yards after the catch. His top-end verticality has been on full display during Shrine Bowl practices, further enhancing his draft stock.
LaJohntay Wester: The Underrated Performer
#3. LaJohntay Wester
LaJohntay Wester, a 5-foot-11 receiver from Florida, is another player who has been turning heads at the Shrine Bowl. With over 3,500 receiving yards and 30 touchdowns in his collegiate career, Wester combines speed with polished route-running skills. However, despite his impressive stats, he is often viewed as a seventh-round selection or even an undrafted free agent.
Wester’s slight frame, weighing in under 170 pounds, raises concerns about his durability at the next level. Yet, during the Shrine Bowl, he has emerged as one of the standout performers. His route-running ability and knack for creating separation from defenders have been evident, and he has even shown increased physicality, making challenging catches despite tight coverage. If he can add some strength before draft day, he might just elevate his stock significantly.
What Lies Ahead for the Buffaloes’ Trio?
As the East-West Shrine Bowl continues, the performances of Sheppard, Horn, and Wester will be closely monitored by NFL scouts. Each player has a unique set of skills that could translate well to the professional level, and their time in Arlington is crucial for their draft prospects.
With Shedeur Sanders opting out, the focus is now on these three talented receivers to carry the torch for the Buffaloes. Their ability to showcase their skills in front of NFL scouts could determine their futures in the league. Will they rise to the occasion and solidify their spots in the upcoming draft? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure: the eyes of the football world are on them.
In conclusion, the East-West Shrine Bowl serves as a critical platform for these players to demonstrate their abilities and secure their futures in professional football. The excitement surrounding college football continues to grow, and with talents like Sheppard, Horn, and Wester, the future looks bright for the Colorado Buffaloes and their prospects in the NFL.
