As the pre-draft process kicks into high gear, names across the college football landscape become ‘must watch’ each weekend. For the Senior Bowl, the premier showcase in the pre-draft process, the fall is a critical proving ground for players to boost their NFL draft stock, and ultimately, earn an invite to Mobile.
Below, we’ll dive into five prospects whose matchups and individual skill sets will draw a hefty spotlight in Week 3.
Ricardo Hallman, DB, Wisconsin
A name that drew buzz during last year’s pre-draft process, Ricardo Hallman returned for his fourth season in Madison. One of the country’s most experienced defensive backs, his versatile skill set will be put under the spotlight against the uber-explosive Alabama offense.
A primary perimeter corner for the Badgers, Hallman has also spent time at safety, in the box, and at nickel. His seven interceptions last fall highlight his instincts and ball skills, and he’s a player who’ll have a large spotlight on his game from NFL evaluators.
Jalen Milroe, QB, Alabama
The most dynamic dual-threat talent in the country, Jalen Milroe’s ability to leave Madison with a win should hold weight toward finalizing his prospect profile. Whether it’s through the air or on the ground, Milroe’s playmaking prowess and explosiveness will be tested against a historically physical and technically sound Wisconsin defense. This matchup is also just the third time in history these programs will meet, the first since 2015.
Donovan Ezeiruaku, EDGE, Boston College
Seven pressures in two weeks have Donovan Ezeiruaku’s stock set to enter fifth gear. A four-year impact player for the program, Ezeiruaku will face his biggest test yet against the Missouri front in Week 3.
His ability to set the edge in the run, while pushing the pocket with tempo and technique will paint a clear picture of his performance ceiling at 5-tech. He’s looking to become the first Boston College edge rusher drafted since 2019 (Zach Allen).
Amari Jackson, CB, Boston College
Another Golden Eagle, this time on the back end. For Amari Jackson, how he approaches each snap is a defensive coordinator’s dream. He’s a fierce competitor who plays with his hair on fire on each and every snap.
Aligned primarily as a perimeter corner, Jackson’s competitiveness pops off the screen when you turn on his tape. His fundamental coverage ability and downhill trigger as a fringe defender showcase an experienced corner, and his snaps against Missouri WR Luther Burden III will be one of the marquee matchups of the weekend.
Jacob Parrish, CB, Kansas State
Get familiar with the name as we get deeper into the fall, as Jacob Parrish has been a constant topic of conversation within league circles. Headlined by outstanding instincts, his quick-twitch and ability to impact the game in both phases showcase a high-level ballplayer, despite potential size concerns. He projects well down the line inside at nickel due to his short-area quickness with open air to either shoulder, ability to impact the run game, and comfortability in man coverage.
A former corner, wide receiver, and running back in high school, Parrish’s athletic profile and fundamental ability as a football player are always an exciting study.
