2023 NFL Draft: Senior Bowl Weigh-In Observations
Senior Bowl week is one of the most fun parts of the pre-draft process. Some of the 2023 NFL Draft class’s premier talent has gathered in Mobile, Alabama to improve their draft stocks—the game is one of a few pre-draft all-star bowls for prospects. The weigh-ins are an important aspect of the weeks leading up to these bowls; my colleague Ric Serritella posted a piece on his observations from the NFLPA Bowl’s weigh-in, and I recently did the same for the Shrine Bowl.
This article makes some observations about the Senior Bowl weigh-ins.
Most Impressive Players on Offense
QB Hendon Hooker, Tennessee | Height: 6035 | Weight: 208 | Hand: 1048 | Arm: 3268 | Wingspan: 7900
Hooker ran the table when it came to quarterback measurements; he was the tallest quarterback at the Senior Bowl, had by far the largest hands, and paced the field in terms of arm length and wingspan. A late-season ACL injury has dampened his draft outlook a bit, but if he heals from his injury, he is going to be a steal for whatever team drafts him.
OT Dawand Jones, Ohio State | Height: 6081 | Weight: 375 | Hand: 1138 | Arm: 3658 | Wingspan: 8948
Jones saw his draft stock skyrocket at the Senior Bowl. One of the reasons: He broke the record for the longest wingspan in Senior Bowl history and has used his tremendous length to stonewall some of the top pass-rushers on the defensive side in one-on-ones. Jones is likely to end up in the first round.
OG O’Cyrus Torrence, Florida | Height: 6047 | Weight: 337 | Hand: 1128 | Arm: 3378 | Wingspan: 8400
Some of Torrence’s measurements would have made him a competitive offensive tackle prospect. The Florida standout is well on his way to hearing his name called in the first round; he possesses a pro-caliber physical frame for a guard and has terrific tape to boot.
Most Impressive Players on Defense
Need a nose tackle? This year’s interior defensive line class is not particularly excellent, and Clark’s weigh-in will certainly turn some heads. Clark is not just heavy; he also possesses the wingspan and arm length to keep offensive linemen at bay and put up a legitimate fight before getting sucked into blocks.
EDGE Derick Hall, Auburn | Height: 6026 | Weight: 252 | Hand: 978 | Arm: 3438 | Wingspan: 8300
We went into Senior Bowl week with the understanding that Hall was a bit smaller than the average EDGE rusher. So, it was important news when Hall showcased an 83-inch wingspan and 34 3/8-inch arms at the weigh-in; this result mitigates some of the size concerns that have affected Hall’s draft stock.
CB Julius Brents, Kansas State | Height: 6030 | Weight: 202 | Hand: 948 | Arm: 3368 | Wingspan: 8278
Brents is in a class of his own when it comes to measurables among the cornerbacks. His long arms will allow him to break up so many more passes than his counterparts with smaller wingspans will be able to. He has the physical tools to dominate in the pros.
Extra Notes
- Some of the other offensive tackles with impressive wingspans include Oklahoma tackle Wanya Morris (8568) and UNC tackle Asim Richards (8328).
- Houston wide receiver Nathaniel Dell checked in at just 163 pounds, which could raise durability concerns.
- Texas linebacker DeMarvion Overshown is only 220 pounds; it remains to be seen what position will make the most sense for him in the NFL.
- Boise State safety J.L. Skinner really is 6-foot-4. His wingspan (8000) is quite remarkable, too.
