The evaluative process for draft prospects goes through several different levels each year. The game tape is the most important thing, of course, but when the college all-star games like the East-West Shrine Game and the Senior Bowl come around, they matter, as well. At those events, NFL coaches and personnel people are able to interact closely on a daily basis with prospects through the weeks of practice, and it’s especially important for smaller-school players, who can show their attributes against players from stronger programs.
As we’re halfway through the practices for the Senior Bowl teams, now is a good time to see who has raised their profiles — sometimes, all the way into the hypothetical first round of the 2024 NFL draft. Because as we go through the scouting combine, pro days, and team visits, those prospects who bloom late will show up, as well.
So, here’s one mock draft reflecting what’s going on down in Mobile.