NFL Draft Watch Week 10: Senior Bowl QB Candidates; LSU vs Bama Prospect Preview
With Senior Bowl invites expected to go out soon, we explore some of the top quarterback candidates, plus a look at this week's SEC Showdown.
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SENIOR BOWL QUARTERBACK COMPETITION HEATING UP
One of the best events of the year for pro prospects to boost their draft stock is at the Reese’s Senior Bowl, an annual all-star game that features ‘the best of the best.’ More specifically, we have seen numerous quarterbacks over the years head down to Mobile and either drastically elevate or solidify their draft status.
Some recent examples would include Justin Herbert (2020) and Daniel Jones (2019). While Herbert was more notable amongst NFL evaluators, his week of practice at Senior Bowl sold him as an elite prospect. On the other hand, there was skepticism surrounding Daniel Jones headed into his Senior Bowl appearance and he emerged as a first round pick (both chosen number six overall).
One of the most memorable Senior Bowl week performances of all-time came from Christian Ponder (2011). Considered to be a mid-round prospect, Ponder played his way all the way up to becoming the 12th overall pick in the NFL Draft—mainly based on his Senior Bowl practices and game performance. (Note: All three, Ponder, Herbert and Jones also earned game MVP honors).
To have the ultimate alpha dogs from all over the country on one field, competing for a shot at the next level, it’s one of the greatest measuring barometers a scout can apply during his evaluation; one golden rule of scouting, ‘the cream always rises to the top.
The football calendar has suddenly rolled over to November. Which means all-star game directors are in the process of sending out the first wave of invitations. Based on the eligible signal-callers who could be playing in Mobile this year, the 2024 Senior Bowl QB Class has the potential to be one of the best we’ve seen in a very long time!
In the exercise below, we attempt to try and decipher which quarterbacks could be chosen this year. Remember that only senior players, or underclassmen who have graduated by December are eligible to play in the all-star game held on February 3rd at Hancock Whitney Stadium.
In this first group, we’ll highlight quarterbacks that we would like to see most in Mobile but may not necessarily compete. There has been a recent uptick in the number quarterbacks who opt to skip the Senior Bowl, usually at the recommendation of their agent — the thought process is that the player has already solidified their draft stock in the eyes of NFL evaluators. Whether you believe that is right or wrong, it’s simply the new reality.
With that said, here are the top quarterbacks that would put an exclamation point on the 2024 Reese’s Senior Bowl.
Jayden Daniels, LSU: A fifth-year senior, Daniels has flourished in Baton Rouge, staking claim as the most improved quarterback prospect over the past two years. Blessed with prototypical size and exceptional athleticism, most impressive about Daniels overall game is his enhanced accuracy, especially on deep balls. His ability to push the ball downfield is alluring, demonstrating timing, touch and placement. That said, Daniels could leapfrog the Senior Bowl and hold out for the NFL Scouting Combine to perform in front of decision-makers.
Bo Nix, Oregon: As noted here last week, Nix has started more games than any quarterback in NCAA history (55); there’s something to be said for experience! Despite having a Senior Bowl invite on the table last year, Nix returned for another season in Eugene and has done nothing but prove that he belongs in the first round mix. Having played so much, Nix may not feel the need to participate in Mobile but we’re hoping he takes a page out of another Ducks’ playbook in the aforementioned Herbert and puts his skill-set on full display.
Michael Penix Jr., Washington: A sixth-year senior, there is much more fluctuation on Penix Jr. in terms of where he projects in the upcoming draft. His durability (three season-ending injuries at Indiana) and mechanics have come into question but there is no doubting his overall talent. In fact, Penix Jr. is outperforming every quarterback in college football and is the current front-runner for the Heisman Trophy. A strong week in Mobile would serve him well but Washington is positioned to make a playoff run, which could cost Penix Jr. a spot in the Senior Bowl.
The next tier of potential Senior Bowl signal-callers feature once highly-rated prospects, or quarterbacks who would benefit greatly from an invitation to the premier all-star game event.
Jordan Travis, Florida State: Seemingly the forgotten man in the Class of 2024, FSU remains undefeated, as Travis has guided the Seminoles to an 18-3 record over the past two seasons. While he possesses a shorter stature and smaller frame than other top quarterbacks, the agile Travis is a master at extending plays. He has matured into more of a passer this year, rather than looking to take off at first moments notice. A standout week in Mobile could go a long way towards the sixth-year senior proving his worth amongst the elite signal-callers.
Spencer Rattler, South Carolina: There were sparks throughout the career of Rattler but he never quite lived up to the billing of the next great ‘Oklahoma’ quarterback in Norman. He has done better in Columbia and most importantly, has shown maturity; a big question mark early on in his career. This year has once again been a mixed bag for Rattler. In addition, the offensive line has left him little time to operate from within the pocket during the Gamecocks most recent four-game losing streak. An opportunity to compete at the Senior Bowl could help him recoup some of his value.
Tyler Van Dyke, Miami: The plight of ‘TVD’ is one of the more disappointing tales of going from shining four-star recruit-to-flameout. The big-bodied Van Dyke electrified the Hurricanes with his rocket-arm as a redshirt freshman but then struggled with performance and injury woes throughout the past two seasons—to even being benched. This year’s quarterback class is shaping up to be deeper than most, so an invite may not even be warranted but there will be coaches at the next level who will believe they can groom the skill-set. Entering the transfer portal is also a possibility.
In this last group of potential Senior Bowl quarterback invites, let’s delve into some players who may not be considered high-round picks but could draw plenty of NFL interest.
JT Daniels, Rice: From USC-to-UGA, then WVU and now Rice, it may be harder to find JT then it is Waldo. The Cali cool signal-caller has appeared in 40 career games and is enjoying his finest season to date down in the heart of Houston. While he struggled in the season opener against Texas, the Owls team captain has since bounced back strong and has been a model of consistency. He has a chance to help guide the program to their first winning record since 2014. Daniels might not be at the top of the Senior Bowl wish list but he has certainly earned consideration.
Joe Milton, Tennessee: This was supposed to be the season ‘it all clicked’ for Milton. After a short-lived tenure in Ann Arbor, Milton took his talents to Knoxville and for a brief moment, appeared to be on the verge of stardom. He stepped in admirably late last year when Hendon Hooker (Lions) went down to injury. Unfortunately, the momentum hasn’t exactly translated over to 2023. While there have been moments of brilliance, Milton has struggled against the SEC-level of competition. However, you can’t teach that kind of size and arm strength.
DJ Uigalelei, Oregon State: Oh the many emotions of the draftnik lust over Uiagalelei — it’s like a bad breakup you just can’t get over. First came the excitement and expectations at Clemson. After the honeymoon was over and Uigalelei shared in some struggles, believers lost that loving feeling. In fact, many had already written him off by the time he transferred out west. But strange things happen during ‘Pac-12 After Dark’ hours and ‘DJU’ has put on a clinic. Suddenly, the love affair is back and possibly more dangerous than ever—a true risk/reward draft proposition for GMs.
There are numerous other eligible quarterbacks who deserve consideration for the Senior Bowl; too many to breakdown. Some others expected to be under review include: Carson Beck (Georgia), Michael Pratt (Tulane), Sam Hartman (Notre Dame), Dillon Gabriel (OU), Devin Leary (Kentucky) and Cameron Ward (Washington).
PODCAST ALERT: Check out our podcast with Reese’s Senior Bowl director Jim Nagy who pulls back the curtain on how the scouting process is orchestrated. Click here to listen!
SERRITELLA TALKS SENIOR BOWL QBS ON SPORTS RAGE
GAME OF THE WEEK: #14 LSU (6-2) at #8 ALABAMA (7-1)
The College Football Playoff Committee released their first set of rankings this past week. As we enter the final month of the regular season, one could argue that the playoff race (with a new expanded six-team format), has never been more wide open.
We will be treated to what is essentially a playoff elimination game on Saturday, as LSU faces the mighty Alabama Crimson Tide in Tuscaloosa (7:45p ET). Tigers quarterback Jayden Daniels is seeking to become the first quarterback to defeat Nick Saban in back-to-back seasons since Purdue quarterback Drew Brees did it, back when Saban was head coach at Michigan State (1998-99).
For Daniels, this is the ultimate showcase game. Often omitted amongst mainstream media when the discussion of first round quarterbacks arise, Daniels can really capitalize on the momentum he’s building with another crucial victory. The 6-foot-3 gunslinger has improved his accuracy each season and throws one of the prettiest deep balls in the nation. The California native leads the FBS with 25 touchdown passes and the most completions of 20-plus yards with 49.
Look for Daniels to hook up with top wideout Malik Nabers, a projected first round pick, early and often. Many were familiar with Nabers coming into the year but another prime target has popped onto the NFL radar in Baton Rouge. The consensus feeling within the scouting community is that fellow wide receiver Brian Thomas has worked himself into a top 100 overall prospect due to his spectacular season.
With several key injuries on defense, headlined by defensive tackle Mekhi Wingo, who’s out for the remainder of the season, LSU will need to lean on the NCAA top-ranked offense.
Since Saban left his post as headman at LSU after delivering a national championship two decades ago, the Tigers are already on their fourth head coach. One constant has remained however — The Bayou continues to be a football factory, churning out pro prospects at a tremendous rate. In fact, there are currently 59 LSU alumni on NFL rosters, or practice squads. Since 2020, the Tigers have had 37 players selected in the NFL Draft.
LSU is stacked once again and figures to have another prominent draft class in ‘24. Here’s a look at the top draft-eligible players, according to the NFL Draft Bible Database Tracker:
For Alabama, a win over LSU would pave a clear path to the College Football Playoffs with very winnable games remaining against Kentucky, Chattanooga and Auburn. That would set up a potential eighth national championship for Saban!
Since Saban has been head coach at Alabama, the program has essentially served as an NFL feeder system. No school has produced more draft picks (123) than the Crimson Tide over the past 15 years, including 10 players chosen in the 2023 NFL Draft.
Another remarkable feat, Saban has produced more first round picks (49) than any head coach in NCAA history (the second closest being Joe Paterno with 33). Alabama also has more current players on NFL rosters (73) than any school in the country —they are the first program in NCAA history to have 70-plus alumni on active NFL rosters, as per the school media guide.
The Crimson Tide are re-loaded, led by their defense, which features top prospects at every level of the defense. Most notably, pass-rushers Dallas Turner and Chris Braswell, both of whom may ultimately wind up being taken in the first round come April. One player on the backend whose status remains up in the air for this matchup is cornerback Terrion Arnold, who suffered a concussion against Tennessee but did return to practice this week.
In what is sure to be one of the most exciting contests of the year, this battle is loaded with next level talent and a large NFL contingency is expected to be in attendance. Below is a look at the top draft-eligible prospects for Alabama, according to the NFL Draft Bible Database Tracker:
Will you be in Mobile? Join us for the 2024 Reese’s Senior Bowl, featuring the 75th Anniversary Team, Presented by the NFLPA. For more info, click here. Come Thirsty! Meet us at Veet’s on Monday, January 29, 2024 for the SMWW Meet & Greet — Tickets are limited.
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