Saturday Blitz
Fansided

2021 Senior Bowl: 3 takeaways from annual draft showcase

By James Costanz

Jan 30, 2021; Mobile, AL, USA; American defensive lineman William Bradley-King of Baylor (99) and American linebacker KJ Britt of Auburn (33) celebrate a stop in the first half of the 2021 Senior Bowl at Hancock Whitney Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vasha Hunt-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 30, 2021; Mobile, AL, USA; American defensive lineman William Bradley-King of Baylor (99) and American linebacker KJ Britt of Auburn (33) celebrate a stop in the first half of the 2021 Senior Bowl at Hancock Whitney Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vasha Hunt-USA TODAY Sports /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
2 of 4
Next
Vasha Hunt-USA TODAY Sports
Vasha Hunt-USA TODAY Sports /

Unheralded players make an impact

One of the better stories of this week was the emergence of Quinn Meinerz, a D3 prospect from Wisconsin-Whitewater. Unfortunately, Meinerz was not able to play today due to a hand injury.

But his work on the practice field was outstanding as he displayed his power and finishing ability against high level competition. In terms of boosting draft stock, despite not playing in the game I believe Meinerz made the biggest jump of any player.

Getting back to the game, the edge rushers on both sides were impressive. Patrick Jones (National) and Janarius Robinson (American) in particular were getting great pressure, with Jones standing out a bit more.

Jones has been given his respect as potential second round pick. But at the same time, has taken the backseat in a lot of the draft media conversation to players like Kwity Paye and  Gregory Rousseau. His performance today was exactly what he needed to not only stay in the conversation as a top 50 pick but rise up draft boards.

Even a guy like Ben Mason stood out despite playing a position that never gets enough love. Most Big Ten fans have seen a play like this before.

It is tough for lineman and linebackers to truly stand out in a game that is dominated by offense and playmaking. But these guys showed up in Mobile and did what was necessary to get them in the graces of NFL decision makers.

Home/NFL Draft