2024 NFL Draft: Top 20 Senior Bowl prospects as college football approaches midseason

Back in August, Reese’s Senior Bowl executive director Jim Nagy and his experienced scouting staff released their watch list for next year’s game, which included 720 prospects from more than 100 college football programs.

In the following, I am ranking my top 20 players from the list and also mentioning 30 other 2024 NFL Draft prospects who have the potential to make it into the rankings when I revise the list at the end of the season.

The Senior Bowl in 2024 is scheduled to take place at the Hancock Whitney Stadium in Mobile, Alabama on February 3, 2024. The event will be broadcasted live on the NFL Network at 1 p.m. ET.

NOTE: Heights and weights are via school measurements.

20) Tommy Eichenberg, LB, Ohio State (6-2, 239)

Eichenberg is a smart leader who always seems to be in the right place at the right time. He took charge of the Buckeyes’ defense during their standout game at Notre Dame last month, making strategic decisions, positioning defensive linemen, and shifting from one sideline to the other to participate in plays. His timing was impeccable, especially noticeable during a run blitz early in the game (as well as a zone blitz in the second quarter). Eichenberg skillfully hit his spot in zone coverage, tracked receivers across the field, and kept an eye on backs heading into routes. As the sibling of Miami Dolphins offensive lineman Liam Eichenberg, Tommy successfully fended off run blockers, though his average size sometimes allowed offensive tackles to overpower him. I foresee Eichenberg having a long and successful career as a starting player on Sundays.

19) Johnny Wilson, WR/TE, Florida State (6-7, 237)

Wilson scored twice in the first quarter of Florida State’s win over Virginia Tech on Saturday, first going low (despite being listed at 6-foot-7) to grab a Jordan Travis pass and later gaining position with a double move that became a corner route. He caught two other passes before leaving the game with an injury. The good news is head coach Mike Norvell told reporters he’s hopeful Wilson will be able to return this week. Wilson needs to play stronger at the catch point against better cornerbacks, as he lost some contested catches against Clemson and had two drops against LSU, per PFF. But he flashes the hands to make tough grabs away from his frame and has also given effort as a blocker downfield this season. Wilson should be coveted by NFL teams looking for a hybrid receiver/tight end.

18) Nazir Stackhouse, DT, Georgia (6-3, 320)

Like his predecessor, Jordan Davis, Stackhouse’s main contribution on defense is maintaining the line of scrimmage. He clogged up the middle against Auburn, swallowing ball-carriers between the tackles. His power and quickness to shoot a gap is excellent for a player listed at 6-3, 320 pounds. He flashes the foot quickness to disrupt plays when lined up on the tackle. Stackhouse might not rack up big production (nine tackles, two for loss, in six games this season) but don’t be surprised if you hear his name more often in the second half of the season.

17) Beaux Limmer, C, Arkansas (6-5, 307)

Limmer is a strong contender for the Rimington Trophy, which is awarded to the country’s best center. Despite being taller than average for his position, he effectively holds his ground against leverage in the pivot. Limmer excels in space on screens and has the ability to neutralize secondary targets, as demonstrated in a touchdown run in the early second half against BYU last month. Even when a defensive lineman gains an advantage at the start, Limmer’s flexibility and determination allow him to maintain his block. He showcased his versatility last week against Ole Miss when he was switched to left guard. While he performed well as both a pass and run blocker in this position, the experiment only lasted a half. This three-year starter at right guard seemed to be more comfortable returning to the center position.

16) T.J. Tampa, CB, Iowa State (6-2, 200)

In his senior campaign, Tampa has already executed several significant plays, including a game-sealing interception in the last 90 seconds against Oklahoma State while playing from the slot in trail technique. The following week, he was acknowledged for a pass breakup against Oklahoma, despite being initially outmaneuvered but managing to reposition himself in time to prevent a touchdown catch. Tampa effectively uses his strength when defending against the run, repelling smaller receivers attempting to block and successfully tackling ball-carriers in open space. Despite surrendering his first touchdown of the season to TCU last weekend when he lost his player during a scramble drill, Tampa also managed to halt a deep pass during the Cyclones’ 27-14 win.

15) Graham Barton, OL, Duke (6-5, 314)

Duke felt the absence of Barton in its loss to Notre Dame last month, due to an upper-body injury he sustained against UConn the week prior. In the season opener against Clemson, Barton demonstrated agility, resilience, and patience in pass protection, effectively grounding Clemson’s talented edge rushers multiple times. His skill in open field movement and finding the right blocking angle also enhance his contribution to the run game. Although Barton might be viewed as a more suitable center— a position he assumed as a true freshman in 2020, I believe he could also excel as an outside player if given the opportunity.

14) DJ James, CB, Auburn (6-1, 164)

Since transitioning from Oregon to Auburn before the last season, James has been a consistent performer. He intercepted a corner route against Cal just a month ago. James also made a remarkable play against Georgia a few weeks later, halting a run on a blitz from the slot and making a great play against Bulldogs WR Ladd McConkey, regaining ground on a corner route while using inside leverage. However, he missed two fourth-quarter tackles against UGA, one against McConkey on a quick pass and another where he was shrugged off by tight end Brock Bowers on the decisive score. Despite this, his physicality is notable, and I believe teams will tolerate occasional missed tackles if he performs his duties as a cover man. This weekend, James will face a formidable challenge against an in-form LSU offense, spearheaded by receivers Malik Nabers and Brian Thomas Jr.

13) Princely Umanmielen, Edge, Florida (6-5, 255)

Umanmielen is currently leading the team with two sacks in the first six games. His impressive start in pass-rush mode has caught the attention of scouts, but his overall athleticism is the highlight. He regularly disrupted quarterback Joe Milton III’s game by skillfully turning the corner and employing long-arm/spin moves to infiltrate the backfield during Florida’s victory over Tennessee last month. Against the Vols’ formidable offensive line, Umanmielen held his own in the run game as well. Interestingly, coaches have even positioned him in the slot for zone coverage against UT, a rare move for an edge rusher of his size, further demonstrating his exceptional athletic ability.

T-11) Michael Penix Jr., QB, Washington (6-3, 213)

T-11) Bo Nix, QB, Oregon (6-2, 217)

Nix and Penix, both fresh from a bye week, will be going head-to-head this Saturday in Seattle. This encounter will allow them an opportunity to advance in the Heisman Trophy competition and compete for the title of the top senior quarterback prospect. Penix’s skill in intermediate and deep throws has shown significant improvement this season, delivering precise passes to a team of NFL-level receivers. However, Washington’s toughest defense so far has been Oregon. The Ducks are currently tied for the eighth position in the FBS with an average of 3.6 sacks per game. While assessing Penix, NFL teams will need to consider his history of injuries at Indiana. His ability to demonstrate resilience under pressure and agility in making plays could significantly alleviate any concerns. Contrarily, Nix must prove his ability to make powerful throws and wise decisions against superior competition, while avoiding major errors. Though their final draft scores won’t solely depend on this performance, it will undoubtedly be closely observed by general managers and coaches who are eager to see their performance under pressure.

10) Blake Corum, RB, Michigan (5-8, 213)

Corum, who underwent knee surgery less than a year ago, currently leads the FBS with 10 rushing touchdowns. His performance is undoubtedly aided by an offensive line which has won the Joe Moore Awards (for the most outstanding OL unit) back-to-back, but it’s evident that he’s increasingly trusting his legs week by week. Last month, Corum scored thrice against UNLV, demonstrating his ability to find gaps and swiftly move into the open field. In the season opener against East Carolina, he showcased his regained long speed by reaching the sideline, and on Sept. 16, he outmaneuvered Bowling Green defenders in the open field, demonstrating his agility and vision. Last week, against Minnesota, Corum only had to run the ball nine times (69 yards, one TD) in a resounding victory, allowing him to conserve energy for the upcoming Big Ten stretch run.

9) Josh Newton, CB, TCU (6-0, 190)

The TCU coaches have full confidence in Newton to defend on his own. His agility and speed enable him to stay close to receivers, causing quarterbacks to throw elsewhere. Newton is skilled at observing receivers’ eyes to contest catches. He encourages teams to throw quick screens his way, ready to intercept and move downhill. Moreover, he’s not shy in the running game or as a slot blitzer, aggressively targeting ball-carriers and securely tackling them. Newton capitalized on a bad call by SMU’s QB Preston Stone last month, intercepting a pass intended for a receiver at the end of the third quarter. Although he missed his line jam on that play, Newton’s recovery speed and reflexes were quick enough to secure the interception.

8) Cooper Beebe, OG, Kansas State (6-4, 335)

Beebe’s robust and strong physique enables him to effectively move defenders as a run blocker and serve as an impenetrable barrier during pass protection. PFF records show that he hasn’t allowed a sack since 2020. In a challenging game against Missouri last month, Beebe generally managed to stick with his man, although at times, he let some penetration occur due to the defenders’ agility. In the first half, he shifted to right tackle due to injuries and either blocked edge rushers effectively or guided them around the pocket. Beebe also proved his strength in the recent defeat to Oklahoma State, consistently hitting targets in the open field.

7) Bralen Trice, Edge, Washington (6-4, 274)

Trice is a formidable edge defender renowned for his powerful long-arm move and aggressive hands. He challenges blockers by going beneath their upfield shoulder to gain an advantage on one play, then he might cut or spin inside on the next if he perceives his opponent leaning outside. Despite frequently dealing with chip blocks in the Huskies’ previous game against Arizona, Trice secured his first sack of the year by overcoming left tackle Jordan Morgan with a bull rush early in the second half versus the Wildcats. Although Trice may not be the quickest or most agile edge rusher, he displays impressive short-area speed for a man of his stature when he spots the ball in his vicinity. This weekend’s matchup with Oregon provides him with a potential opportunity to shine against Ducks’ star quarterback, Bo Nix.

6) Ruke Orhorhoro, DT, Clemson (6-4, 290)

Orhorhoro’s opportunities to rack up statistics (11 tackles, 2.5 for loss, and two sacks in six games) are restricted by Clemson’s extensive defensive line rotation. However, he consistently pressures offensive lines with his presence. He demonstrates his quickness by lining up across the frontline and infiltrating the backfield right after the snap. Despite his height and relatively slender build, he effectively resists blocks. While Orhorhoro regularly managed to penetrate gaps, he was unable to reach the ball for a significant play during the Tigers’ season opener loss to Duke. Last month, he posed a challenge for quarterbacks when Florida State and Syracuse allowed him interior space during their matchups. He’s expected to be a valuable addition to a one-gap NFL system, where he can swiftly move upfield to interrupt plays.

5) Rome Odunze, WR, Washington (6-3, 215)

Despite his size, Odunze is an agile player, skillfully challenging smaller defenders downfield and across the middle with his physical prowess and surprising speed. His skills were showcased against Cal last month when he evaded two Bears at close range before smoothly navigating behind solid blocking to score a punt-return touchdown. In that same game, his height and strong grip assisted him in catching wide and underthrown passes. He later scored twice more, first by skillfully capturing a pass towards the sideline after gaining an inside position, and then breaking through one tackle and spinning off another in the red zone on a middle screen. To date this year, Odunze has not given any ground in maintaining his standing as the top senior wideout.

4) Laiatu Latu, Edge, UCLA (6-5, 265)

Latu kicked off the season on a high note, easily bypassing Coastal Carolina’s tackles and scoring three sacks in the Bruins’ victory. Despite not achieving a sack in the previous month’s defeat at Utah, he demonstrated a wide range of skills to scouts. Latu was versatile, taking positions on both the left and right sides of the line, and directly confronting guards and tackles from a three-point stance. He skillfully fell back into coverage and pursued plays from the back side. His quick penetration and use of leverage in the run game were noticeable when he was inside. His speed and strength made it challenging for tackles to block him, as he managed to get under their upfield shoulder. Latu’s ability to free himself from blocks to catch ball-carriers was also noteworthy. He managed to secure his fifth sack of the year in UCLA’s recent victory over Washington State, solidifying his position as a leading senior prospect.

3) Jer’Zhan Newton, DT, Illinois (6-2, 295)

Newton has made a significant impact on the otherwise underwhelming Illinois team this season, recording 27 tackles, 3.5 for a loss, and 2.5 sacks. His standout performance was against his fiercest competitors, the robust offensive line of Penn State. Newton showed his strength by breaking through guards’ blocks and making plays on the ball multiple times. He made a key contribution near the goal line in the first quarter, shutting down several runs and forcing a field goal. Throughout his career, including that game, he has proven his worth with his swift footwork and hand skills, chasing plays from behind and down the line of scrimmage. Newton also managed to block a 52-yard field goal attempt by the Nittany Lions in the second quarter, thanks to its low trajectory. His skills pose a significant challenge to NFL offenses.

2) Jared Verse, Edge, Florida State (6-4, 260)

Verse is not quite on pace to match his production from last season, with 4.5 tackles for loss (2.5 sacks) through five games in 2023, but he is still making a major impact. He displayed his skill set in Florida State’s overtime win against ACC rival Clemson last month, posting half a tackle for loss and a pass breakup. Verse uses his hands better than any defender in the college game, chopping the tackle’s hands to get into the backfield when in attack mode and winning at the point of attack against the run. He did exactly that at the end of the third quarter against the Tigers, swimming over a tackle to make a stop. Verse’s awareness is also a plus; he nearly intercepted a third-down screen pass to his side in the first quarter. That combination of short-area quickness, power and football IQ makes him an elite prospect.

1) Olu Fashanu, OT, Penn State (6-6, 319)

Fashanu remains at the pinnacle due to his comprehensive skillset: he is intelligent (as evidenced by his semifinalist position for the William V. Campbell Trophy, known as the academic Heisman), tough, tall, and strong. As the team captain, he is seldom outmatched in pass protection, a fact that Illinois discovered earlier this season. His lateral movement, strong grip, and solid stance make him a formidable opponent. In the running game, he faced off against Jer’Zhan Newton and his teammates, maintaining his blocks by moving his feet and utilizing his height. Although he was penalized for holding when he failed to block the inside lane in the late first half, and Illinois defenders managed to hold their ground on some running plays, NFL teams should be aware that Fashanu’s potential is limitless.

Thirty more to watch

Listed in alphabetical order:

• Tyler Baron, Edge, Tennessee (6-foot-5, 260 pounds)
• Trey Benson, RB, Florida State (6-1, 223)
• Beau Brade, S, Maryland (6-1, 210)
• Chris Braswell, Edge, Alabama (6-3, 255)
• Linebacker Edgerrin Cooper from Texas A&M, stands 6 feet 3 inches tall and weighs 230 pounds.
• Malachi Corley, WR, Western Kentucky (5-11, 210)
• Jayden Daniels, QB, LSU (6-4, 210)
• Ray Davis, RB, Kentucky (5-10, 216)
• Tyler Davis, DT, Clemson (6-2, 300)
• Javon Foster, OT, Missouri (6-5, 319)
• Cedric Gray, LB, North Carolina (6-2 1/2, 235)
• Tre Harris, WR, Mississippi (6-2, 205)
• Christian Haynes, OG, UConn (6-2, 313)
• Ty’Ron Hopper, LB, Missouri (6-2, 221)
• Tory Horton, WR, Colorado State (6-2, 190)
• Adisa Isaac, Edge, Penn State (6-4, 254)
• Kris Jenkins, DT, Michigan (6-3, 305)
• KeAndre Lambert-Smith, WR, Penn State (6-1, 185)
• Xavier Legette, WR, South Carolina (6-3, 227)
• Quinyon Mitchell, CB, Toledo (6-0, 196)
• Jordan Morgan, OT, Arizona (6-5, 325)
• Tyler Nubin, S, Minnesota (6-2, 210)
• Eyabi Okie, Edge, Charlotte (6-5, 244)
• Patrick Paul, OT, Houston (6-7, 315)
• Ben Sinnott, TE, Kansas State (6-4, 245)
• Cade Stover, TE, Ohio State (6-4, 251)
• T’Vondre Sweat, DT, Texas (6-4, 362)
• Sedrick Van Pran, C, Georgia (6-4, 310)
• N.C. State Linebacker Payton Wilson (6-4, 238)
• Zak Zinter, OG, Michigan (6-6, 322)