Senior Bowl Practice Wrap-Up: Players Rising and Falling in Draft Stocks 📈📉

The Reese's Senior Bowl wrapped up after three exciting practice sessions featuring some of the top 2025 NFL Draft prospects. This past week showcased a variety of talent levels as players aimed to boost their draft appeal. While some athletes soared to new heights, others struggled to make a lasting impression. Below is a detailed analysis of the performers who stood out and those who faced challenges during practice week.

🚀 Players on the Rise

OL Grey Zabel, North Dakota State

PFF Big Board Rank: 41

Grey Zabel transformed expectations this week after playing primarily as a tackle throughout his college career. He utilized the Senior Bowl practices to showcase his adaptability by taking snaps at center and both guard positions. His impressive performance against a formidable defensive line highlighted his athleticism and lateral movement, stemming from his experience as a former tackle.

In one-on-one drills, Zabel's pass protection skills were top-notch, demonstrating his ability to transition effectively between positions. He posted an outstanding 86.5 PFF pass-blocking grade during his time at North Dakota State, making it clear this week that he could secure a top-40 selection in the upcoming draft.

WR Jack Bech, TCU

PFF Big Board Rank: 56

Jack Bech was undeniably the star wide receiver on the American team throughout the Senior Bowl. His route-running technique consistently impressed; he made difficult catches look effortless and even showcased his competitive spirit in blocking drills.

Bech's performance this week mirrored his breakout season at TCU, where he achieved over 1,000 receiving yards and maintained an 83.1 PFF receiving grade. With his well-rounded skill set, he may very well be one of the first receivers picked when the draft arrives.

EDGE Shemar Stewart, Texas A&M

PFF Big Board Rank: 20

Standing at 6-foot-5 and weighing 281 pounds, Shemar Stewart entered the Senior Bowl with an impressive frame and skills that raised eyebrows. His previous strong performance at Texas A&M included an 88.2 PFF run-defense grade. However, it was during the Senior Bowl practices that Stewart truly shined as a pass-rusher.

Claiming the title of the highest-graded player across any position during the first two practices, Stewart overwhelmed opponents with his power and length. His agility was evident when he executed a strip sack during a team period, solidifying his status as a top prospect in the draft conversation.

EDGE Mike Green, Marshall

PFF Big Board Rank: 11

Mike Green entered the Senior Bowl looking to confirm his track record as one of the nation’s top edge defenders after finishing the 2024 season at the top of performance ratings. He rose to the occasion with some phenomenal repetitions, exhibiting a commanding bull rush in one-on-ones that left his opponents flat on the ground.

Green's effectiveness in run support during team drills coupled with his dominant performances made it clear that he is ready to compete against the best in the league. Having proven his abilities against elite offensive linemen, Green’s stock is climbing rapidly heading toward draft day.

TE Mason Taylor, LSU

PFF Big Board Rank: 117

Mason Taylor arrived at the Senior Bowl with high potential and managed to impress scouts with flashes of brilliance. While inconsistency had plagued his collegiate career, he made strides in his route-running and contested-catch capabilities at the event.

His footwork was agile, moving skillfully in and out of breaks, alongside reasonable blocking efforts during drills. Taylor positioned himself as a premier tight end prospect, likely securing a spot as one of the top three players at his position when draft weekend arrives.

📉 Players Facing Challenges

QB Jalen Milroe, Alabama

PFF Big Board Rank: 68

Expectations were high for Jalen Milroe, given his athleticism and high-risk playing style. However, he faced hurdles in Mobile, struggling with footwork, timing, and overall accuracy. Most practice sessions saw him late on throws and struggling for consistency.

Despite finishing stronger during the latter stages of practice, Milroe’s inability to perform optimally in a controlled setting raises concerns about his draft trajectory, making it difficult to foresee him being selected in the earlier rounds.

OL Wyatt Milum, West Virginia

PFF Big Board Rank: 37

Questions surrounding Wyatt Milum's future position in the NFL became more pronounced during practice. His arm length was largely criticized, raising doubts about his effectiveness against edge rushers at the next level.

By week’s end, Milum found himself relegated to guard duties, where he displayed some mobility in run blocking but failed to address concerns related to his pass protection skills. Given this performance, he may have placed his first-round potential in jeopardy.

TE Harold Fannin Jr., Bowling Green

PFF Big Board Rank: 70

Despite an impressive college season that culminated in numerous records, Harold Fannin Jr. struggled to compete with other tight end prospects at the Senior Bowl. His lack of explosiveness and difficulty in separating from coverage were evident, leading to challenges in both receiving and blocking.

As the week progressed, he attempted to boost his versatility by taking snaps at fullback, but without demonstrating standout receiving skills, doubts surrounding his future in the league have intensified.

DI Deone Walker, Kentucky

PFF Big Board Rank: 74

Deone Walker's potential was evident at 340 pounds; however, he faced significant technical limitations during practices. His pad level and leverage technique need improvement, as evidenced by struggles against smaller opponents who controlled his positioning.

While he might display flashes of athleticism at the combine, his on-field performance suggests he could be a mid-to-late Day 2 pick instead of a higher selection.

EDGE Princely Umanmielen, Ole Miss

PFF Big Board Rank: 39

Entering the Senior Bowl on the radar of first-round consideration, Princely Umanmielen's week raised questions amid a lackluster performance. Struggling to capitalize on his pass-rushing opportunities, he frequently lost his footing and failed to challenge tackles effectively.

Given that he couldn't replicate his prior season's success, Umanmielen’s draft stock looks more aligned with Day 2 projections at this stage.

Conclusion

The Senior Bowl provided exciting insights into emerging talents and disappointing performances, painting a vivid picture as teams prepare for the upcoming draft. The spotlight is always intense for these young athletes, and those who capitalize on the opportunity may solidify their places in the NFL. Which players will ultimately make the most significant impact at the next level? Only time will tell! 🏈🌟