2021 Senior Bowl: 6 players who impressed on day three
The third and final day of the 2021 Senior Bowl practices more exciting performances much like the two previous days.
While several players performed significantly well, six participants stood out the most. These are participants that not only performed their role significantly but exceeded expectations.
The third practice day of the 2021 Senior Bowl was one the day that focused heavily on team period sessions. These six players were the ones that stood out the most during these important periods. Due to their significant performances in Thursday’s practice, these participants have their NFL Draft stock increasing.
John Bates – tight end (Boise State) – National
Thursday’s practice featured more intense team periods and red zone possession drills. This was a day where short-yardage receivers and tight ends could make a name for themselves. While some receivers looked good, Boise State Broncos tight end John Bates was a player that played excellent every time he had the ball.
Bates was consistent in the position drill sessions, but he stood out the most in the team periods. Despite his big frame at 6’5, 259 pounds, Bates was a solid route runner and quick to get to the ball. He was heavily contested in most of his biggest plays in team periods but still managed to separate himself.
Bates made back-to-back touchdown plays in the RedZone session of team period including one where he found himself wide-open in the endzone. With the combination of his huge size, agility in his route running, and good hands, Bates has boosted his NFL Draft tremendously. This is pivotal for a smaller program like Boise State in the Mountain West.
Trey Smith – guard (Tennessee) – American
There have been some stellar offensive linemen in the practice days of the 2021 Senior Bowl. Tennessee Volunteers guard Trey Smith is one of the recognized players who didn’t have the best start in the week of the Senior Bowl. On the third practice day of the 2021 Senior Bowl, Smith performed to the high expectations in team periods and one-on-ones.
Smith was more electrifying as a dominant blocker in the run game and pass protection on the third day. He won more matchups in one-on-one matchups against more high-caliber pass rushers like Wake Forest edge rusher Carlos Basham Jr. When paired up against Basham in some sets, Smith stayed strong in his balance and vigilant in keeping Basham at the center of his pass protection.
He was highly consistent in team periods as he displayed his dominant run blocking. Smith is a borderline first-round caliber interior offensive lineman, who could also play offensive tackle. His Draft stock will be determined more in the Senior Bowl game on Saturday as well as his Pro Day.