2021 Senior Bowl: 6 players who impressed on day one

Levi Onwuzurike – defensive tackle (Washington) – National

One of the players who made their presence on-the-field early in the 2021 Senior Bowl was Levi Onwuzurike. He comes into the Senior Bowl as one of the most established interior defensive linemen. Onwuzike measures in at 6’2, 290 pounds, which makes him the third heaviest defensive line in the Senior Bowl.

Onwuzurike consistently displayed his ability to get into the backfield as well as disrupt the running lanes of the offense due to a combination of his strength and surprising athleticism. He was able to consistently use swim moves and pulls out of the blocking of the opposing offensive line.

His impressive performance in Tuesday’s practice improved many pro scouts and coaches. There is even a potential boost in his NFL Draft Stock enough to get him first-round talk to the late first-round where the Kansas City Chiefs.

Austin Watkins – wide receiver (UAB) – American

Every year, some players come into the Senior Bowl with heavy expectations based on their name or their program. There are also players like UAB Blazers wide receiver Austin Watkins, who need to take advantage of their opportunities to boost their name as well as their draft stock.

While the quarterbacks for the American Team in Mac Jones and Jamie Newman played highly efficient, it was the wide receiver corp. that was the shining spot of the passing offense. Watkins was among one of the most impactful receivers for the American Team on Tuesday.

Watkins has a big wingspan for a receiver at 76’, which helped him in beating talented defensive backs on Tuesday. He was highly consistent in the position drills and team period in getting to the ball. He has soft and reliable hands to make the catch, possesses the ability to separate himself from the defensive back, and can find the ball efficiently.