2026 Senior Bowl Preview: Draft Stock on the Line in Mobile

The road to the 2026 NFL Draft officially heats up this week as more than 100 of the nation’s top prospects descend on Mobile, Alabama, for the annual Panini Senior Bowl. With all 32 NFL teams in attendance, Senior Bowl week represents one of the most important evaluation windows of the pre-draft process.

Practices begin Tuesday and run through Thursday, culminating in Saturday’s showcase game (2:30 p.m. ET, NFL Network). For prospects hovering between rounds, strong performances here can mean the difference between Day 2 momentum or slipping into Day 3 territory.

Players to Watch Closely

Caleb Banks, DT (Florida)After an injury-limited season, Banks enters Mobile with unfinished business. At 6-foot-6 and 330 pounds, his rare speed-to-power profile could quickly revive early-round buzz if he dominates one-on-one drills.

Chris Johnson, CB (San Diego State)A technician in coverage with elite footwork, Johnson’s ball production and press ability have already caught scouts’ attention. The big question: can he match power-conference receivers? A strong week could cement his place inside the top 50.

Keylan Rutledge, G (Georgia Tech)One of the most physical interior linemen in the class, Rutledge thrives in the run game and could be a standout during trench battles. Teams valuing toughness and versatility will be watching closely.

Quarterback Spotlight

Garrett Nussmeier (LSU)Senior Bowl settings often reward anticipation and accuracy — two of Nussmeier’s biggest strengths. After an injury-plagued season, this week is critical for regaining momentum and improving a draft grade that currently ranges from Round 3 to Round 6.

Skill Players Who Could Rise

Justin Joly, TE (NC State)An athletic mismatch with strong hands and timing, Joly has the tools to become a favorite target in practice. Expect him to generate buzz as a mid-round sleeper.

Nicholas Singleton, RB (Penn State)Despite a quiet season statistically, Singleton’s explosiveness and frame give him a chance to separate himself in a class without a clear RB2. A strong showing could significantly boost his stock.

Defensive Risers to Monitor

Romello Height, Edge (Texas Tech)Bend, burst, and relentless effort make Height one of the most intriguing pass rushers in Mobile. He’s expected to shine in one-on-ones and could rise into late Day 2 consideration.

Daylen Everette, CB (Georgia)With SEC experience and press-coverage strength, Everette is well-positioned to dominate against a thinner receiver group this week.

Kyle Louis, LB/S (Pittsburgh)A potential position switch to safety could work in Louis’ favor. His ball skills and physicality make him one of the defensive sleepers with Day 2 upside.

Day 3 Sleepers Worth Betting On

• Kevin Coleman Jr., WR (Missouri): Electric after the catch with elite acceleration.

• Keyron Crawford, Edge (Auburn): Consistent pressure producer with advanced hand usage.

• J’Mari Taylor, RB (Virginia): Productive, balanced runner who fits modern offenses.

• Tacario Davis, CB (Washington): Long, physical press corner looking to remind scouts of his upside.

• Ted Hurst, WR (Georgia State): Vertical threat with size and speed.

• Max Iheanachor, OT (Arizona State): Athletic pass protector with high developmental upside. BetNow Insight 🧠💰

  Senior Bowl standouts often become late draft risers, preseason futures targets, and long-term value plays. This week isn’t just about tape — it’s about momentum.