The Reese’s Senior Bowl has evolved into a pivotal event in the college football landscape, serving as a crucial pre-draft showcase ahead of the 2025 NFL Draft. While it’s known as a college All-Star game, the week of practices leading up to the game in Mobile, Alabama, has become essential for players looking to impress NFL coaching staffs. With teams like the New York Giants and Cleveland Browns sending their coaches, including offensive coordinator Mike Kafka and special teams coordinator Bubba Ventrone, the stakes are high. This is where the future stars of the NFL can distinguish themselves from those who may only become backups.
As the rosters for both the National and American teams fill with promising talent, the competition becomes fiercer. This year, the pool of players has expanded to include draft-eligible underclassmen, making it an even more exciting event for scouts and fans alike. Who will rise to the occasion, and who will falter under pressure? Let’s dive into the standout performances and the disappointing showings from the week.
Winners of the Senior Bowl
Jaxson Dart, QB, Ole Miss has made a significant leap in his draft stock. His week was nothing short of remarkable, showcasing strong and accurate downfield throws. Dart’s ability to finish drives with precision in the red zone has propelled him into first-round discussions. With his confidence soaring, it’s safe to say that Dart’s rise will continue throughout the pre-draft season.
Another standout performer was Dillon Gabriel, QB, Oregon. Gabriel dazzled observers with his quick release and impressive velocity. His athleticism added an extra layer to his game, making him a dual-threat option. With a solid background in Oklahoma’s high-powered offense, Gabriel is positioning himself as a serious contender in the quarterback race.
Also making waves was Trevor Etienne, RB, Georgia. The younger brother of NFL star Travis Etienne, Trevor has shown a unique blend of power running and open-field receiving. He’s proving to be a well-rounded back, potentially even better than his older brother. His ability to create plays and contribute in multiple facets of the game makes him a player to watch.
Emerging Tight Ends
The tight end position is also seeing some exciting talent emerge. Harold Fannin Jr., TE, Bowling Green, has been a revelation with his physicality and athleticism. His ability to explode into routes and make big plays has caught the attention of scouts. Alongside him, Elijah Arroyo, TE, Miami, has been turning heads as well. Arroyo is a formidable red-zone threat, showcasing impressive highlights that demonstrate his ability to stretch the field.
Losers of the Senior Bowl
Not every player has left Mobile with their stock on the rise. Jalen Milroe, QB, Alabama, faced challenges this week. Struggling with ball-handling and accuracy, Milroe’s performance was disappointing given his high early ranking. While he maintained some zip on his passes, he needs to refine his skills to regain momentum.
Similarly, Ollie Gordon, RB, Oklahoma State, didn’t stand out as expected. Lacking a particular strength, Gordon’s chances of being a high pick have diminished. He may find success in a solid system, but he hasn’t showcased the dynamism that scouts are looking for.
On the offensive line, Emery Jones, OT, LSU, had a tough week. His drills revealed that he might need to transition to guard to handle quicker edge rushers. As it stands, he’s likely to be drafted in the middle rounds, trailing behind his teammate Will Campbell.
Defensive Highlights and Struggles
On the defensive side, Mike Green, EDGE, Marshall, has been a standout. Leading FBS with 17 sacks, Green has shown that he can translate his college production to the next level. His explosive drills have made him a player to watch, with comparisons to Jared Verse from the previous draft class.
In contrast, Landon Jackson, EDGE, Arkansas, struggled to make an impact. Despite having 6.5 sacks last season, he needs to develop a more diverse pass-rush repertoire. His battles against stronger offensive tackles highlighted areas for improvement, which could affect his draft position.
Finally, Billy Bowman Jr., S, Oklahoma, faced challenges as well. Although he has flashed potential in coverage, Bowman appears to be heading toward a specialist role in nickel packages rather than a starting position. His versatility is valuable, but he will need to find his niche in the NFL.
Looking Ahead to the Draft
As we look ahead to the 2025 NFL Draft, the Reese’s Senior Bowl has provided a platform for many players to showcase their skills. The winners have solidified their positions as top prospects, while the losers will need to regroup and refine their games. The excitement surrounding these young athletes is palpable, and as the draft approaches, every performance counts. Who will rise to the occasion, and who will fade into the background? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure: the road to the NFL is just beginning for these talented players.
