While several prospects boosted their NFL Draft stocks at this week's Senior Bowl practices, NFL analyst Daniel Jeremiah picks five players who stood out most.
2016 Senior Bowl practices are in the book, and all that's left for the prospects is Saturday's game at Ladd-Peebles Stadium in Mobile, Ala.
Both teams of prospects – the North Team and the South Team -- had three different two-hour practices during the week with the chance to showcase their talents in front of scouts and personnel for all 32 NFL teams.
Some, like Ohio State's Braxton Miller, took advantage of the opportunity to play in the annual invitation-only event, as the wide receiver, who started his career at quarterback and spent most of his time there, really shined.
Others quietly also got positive reviews for their play.
Below are five players who stood out according to NFL Media Analyst Daniel Jeremiah:
--North Dakota State quarterback Carson Wentz entered this week facing more pressure than any other prospect in Mobile. He was by far the highest-rated passer heading into the week of practice and everyone was eager to see how he would respond to the pressure and higher completion level. He responded with an outstanding performance. He displayed ideal size, arm strength and most importantly, poise. This moment wasn't too big for him. I'm looking forward to watching him play on Saturday, but he's already done enough to earn his spot in the first round of the 2016 NFL Draft.
--Indiana offensive tackle Jason Spriggs had an outstanding week of practice. He displayed quick feet, balance and knee bend. He was inconsistent when I studied him on tape, but he put together a steady, dependable week of practice. He won't get out of the second round and he could garner some consideration late in the first round.
--Ohio State wide receiver Braxton Miller was the most explosive player in Mobile. While he's still learning the nuances of the position, it was impossible to ignore his suddenness in his release as well as his ability to find another gear when the ball is in the air. He will need some work as a route runner, (he's trying to incorporate three moves when one will do) but he doesn't have any physical limitations. He made one ridiculous catch on the sideline where he completely spun around and plucked the ball away from his frame. That was all I needed to see. He's going to figure it all out at the next level and he's going to be a stud.
--LSU linebacker Deion Jones had an excellent week of practice. Five years ago, we wouldn't be hyping up a linebacker that checked in at a very lean 219 pounds. However, the NFL game has changed and we've seen several light linebackers have a dynamic impact over the last few years. Guys like Deone Bucannon, Telvin Smith and Kwon Alexander have each overcome their lack of ideal size because of rare explosiveness, instincts and playmaking ability. Jones was all over the field this week. He has incredible lateral range against the run and he can cover all day long. Some team is going to have the courage to take him in the second round and I believe they'll be rewarded for it.
--Louisville defensive tackle Sheldon Rankins suffered a minor injury and won't play on Saturday, but he made quite an impression on NFL evaluators during the week of practice. In a loaded DL group, he stood out because of his quickness and pass-rush savvy. He dominated one-on-ones by using a variety of moves to go along with his explosive get off. He should be a lock to go in the middle of the first round.
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