As the pre-draft process kicks into high gear, names across the college football landscape become ‘must watch’ each weekend. For the Senior Bowl, the premier showcase in the pre-draft process, the fall is a critical proving ground for players to boost their NFL draft stock, and ultimately, earn an invite to Mobile.
Below, we’ll dive into five prospects whose matchups and individual skill sets will draw a hefty spotlight in Week 5.
Ashton Gillotte, EDGE, Louisville
There are games in a player's career that can be labeled as ‘resume games.’ In last year's class, it was QB Jayden Daniels’ tape against Florida and TE Brock Bowers’ tape against Auburn. While Ashton Gillotte isn’t a Heisman favorite like Daniels was this time last fall, nor does he project as the first player drafted from his position like Bowers, he has a massive opportunity this week against Notre Dame.
A powerful (266v pounds) yet twitched-up edge threat that has accumulated 11 pressures in three games, Gillotte’s ability to set the edge on early downs, showcase his alignment versatility, and push the pocket on third down will continue to finalize his impressive prospect profile.
Jalen Milroe, QB, Alabama
The most dynamic dual-threat talent in the country, Jalen Milroe’s ability to lead the Crimson Tide over the No. 2 ranked Georgia Bulldogs will go a long way in solidifying his draft stock. Whether it’s through the air or on the ground, Milroe’s playmaking prowess and explosiveness will be tested against a historically fast and physical defense. 17 NFL teams will have representatives in attendance.
Antwaun Powell-Ryland, EDGE, Virginia Tech
I’m fired up to see Antwaun Powell-Ryland this week against QB Cam Ward and the Miami Hurricanes. A pass-rusher whose stock continues to rise as the weeks progress, his knack for creating chaos within the pocket will hold massive weight toward the Hokies’ ability to earn an upset this week. He’s got 15 pressures and four sacks through four games, with an opportunity to raise a few eyebrows with a solid Week 5.
Maxwell Hairston, CB, Kentucky
Maxwell Hairston against Tre Harris, Juice Wells, and the Ole Miss offense should be a treat to study on Saturday afternoon. It’s the type of matchup you circle from a player's perspective and a chance for Hairston to elevate his stock within a top-heavy corner class.
A preseason first-team All-SEC selection, Hairston has allowed just four catches on eight targets for 81 yards so far this fall. Against Georgia in Week 3, Hairston allowed just one catch for 13 yards on three targets and has amassed more PBUs (4) than touchdowns allowed (3) in his career to date.
Aireontae Ersery, OT, Minnesota
Get familiar with the name as we get deeper into the fall, as Aireontae Ersery has been a constant topic of conversation within league circles throughout the summer months. Headlined by outstanding footwork and prototypical size/length for the position, he projects as an immediate contributor along an NFL front five with first-round potential. Week 5 will present his biggest test yet, a matchup on the road against the No. 12 ranked Michigan Wolverines.
