AAF 2026 All East-West Shrine Bowl Team
The All Access Football All East-West Shrine Bowl Team is based on observations at practice throughout the week and game performance.
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AAF 2026 ALL EAST-WEST SHRINE BOWL TEAM
The 101st East-West Shrine Bowl in Frisco is history, as the West team defeated the East team by a score of 21-17 on a last-second rushing touchdown by Tulsa running back Dom RIchardson, who finished with nine carries for 54 yards.
Iowa quarterback Mark Gronowski would earn Offensive MVP honors, passing for 86 yards and rushing for another 26 yards but it was his lead block that was most memorable, as he paved the way for a cutback touchdown scamper by Dean Connors of Houston. The gritty toughness that Gronowski displayed was sure to win over the hearts of scouts. In addition, he displayed great awareness to move the chains with his legs when needed. Technically, this was the 69th start of Gronowski’s career, which is the type of experience that NFL teams are excited to work with.
For Connors, it was a strong finish to a solid overall week. What stood out most about the transfer from Rice was his keen route running and ability to catch the ball out of the backfield. He was tough to cover, especially during one-on-one drills in practice. It’s easy to envision Connor as an effective third down specialist at the next level.
The most impressive player from the game was Wisconsin edge rusher Mason Reiger, whose relentless motor was on full display, registering three sacks on the evening. The crafty Reiger flashed a pass-rush repertoire featuring a swift swipe, along with the bend to dip underneath and finished off his second sack with a tomahawk chop of the football. His performance has likely earned him a solid Day 2 grade overall.
Other notable players included Illinois defensive tackle James Thompson Jr., who had a stellar week and recorded an unblocked sack early in the first quarter. Iowa speedster Kaden Wetjen flashed his incredible explosiveness, returning his first punt for 25 yards, while UTSA Shad Banks continued to constantly show up around the ball.
Speaking of showing up, LSU wideout Chris Hilton Jr. has been making the rounds along the all-star circuit. The Tigers target has now participated in the Hula Bowl, American Bowl, East-West Shrine Bowl and will report to Mobile on Wednesday to partake in the Senior Bowl. It only takes one team to fall in love and Hilton Jr. has had every opportunity to impress.
Overall, the 101st East-West Shrine Bowl was one of the more talented rosters we can recall in recent years, with numerous players expected to be chosen within the first 100 overall selections. (photo courtesy: East-West Shrine Bowl)
Below is the All Access Football 2026 All East-West Shrine Bowl Team, based on observations and feedback throughout the week from frigid Frisco, Texas!
2026 ALL-EAST-WEST SHRINE BOWL FIRST TEAM
