FSU’s Braden Fiske shines in Reeses Senior Bowl game

Braden Fiske’s standout performance at the Senior Bowl, his disruptive presence in the backfield, and rapid initial burst, has emphatically amplified his draft prospects

Braden Fiske’s NFL draft stock keeps climbing. In a recent article, I highlighted his compelling performance throughout the Senior Bowl practice week, particularly noting his dynamic presence in practice sessions and one-on-one reps. His prowess, characterized by a unique blend of speed, power, and aggression, established him as a standout force on the line.

Despite facing challenges in a few reps against Miami’s Javion Cohen, Fiske’s overall dominance, especially in team exercises, underscored his ability to disrupt plays and command the line of scrimmage. Even with a relatively lighter frame, his explosive talent shone through, unequivocally affirming his readiness for the NFL stage. He simply gets off the ball like he was shot out of a cannon at 6’4 295 lbs.

This readiness was further validated during the Senior Bowl game, where Fiske’s performance silenced any lingering doubts about his capability to excel at a higher level. His relentless drive resulted in a constant presence in the backfield, a fact that did not go unnoticed. The game’s commentators frequently mentioned his name, at times dedicating minutes to laud his substantial impact on the game, particularly during the third quarter. NFL analysts Charles Davis and Brian Baldinger both raved about his performance postgame.

Fiske’s performance in the game speaks volumes: a sack, numerous stops in the backfield, and consistent pressure on the offense whenever he was on the field. His initial burst, among the fastest I’ve observed from an ACC interior lineman in recent years, was a persistent nightmare for the opposition. His exceptional play even sparked discussions among spectators and analysts about him being a deserving candidate for the game’s MVP, a remarkable consideration given that he switched teams at the last minute due to roster requirements.

The culmination of Fiske’s impressive week of practice was this game, where his name was mentioned more often than most skill position players, a notable feat for an interior lineman. This showcase is expected to significantly elevate Fiske’s draft stock. Currently, he is projected to go in the second or third round.

Fiske wasn’t the only player from FSU to leave a mark on the game. Jaheim Bell demonstrated notable yards-after-catch (YAC) ability and athleticism, turning a few catches into gains. His consistent performance throughout the week, marked by a natural knack for finding open space, suggests that he, like Fiske, is a name to watch as the draft approaches.