Senior Bowl 2025 Biggest Winners: Practice Day 1

The 2025 Senior Bowl officially began on Tuesday with its first two practice sessions. As per usual, various 2025 NFL Draft hopefuls took advantage of the spotlight by maximizing their reps and opportunities. Mobile offers prospects a chance to compete under the brightest of lights. The following eight talents especially stood out during Tuesday's two practices. 

Grey Zabel, IOL, North Dakota State

Grey Zabel played offensive tackle at North Dakota State in 2024, but NFL evaluators expect him to kick inside at the next level. Responding to that expectation, Zabel logged snaps at guard and center during Tuesday's practice session. He appeared at home, displaying rare grip strength, power, and poise throughout one-on-one reps. He was arguably Tuesday’s most impressive overall performer.

Dorian Strong, CB, Virginia Tech

The National Team practice was dominated by the cornerbacks, and Virginia Tech's Dorian Strong was a routine standout. Highlighting the same press-man stickiness seen on tape, Strong was a nuisance to receivers who aligned opposite him. He's instinctual with size and the acceleration required to stay in phase.

Deone Walker, DT, Kentucky

Deone Walker had eye-popping results during the weigh-in process, checking in at an unfathomable 6-foot-7 and 340 pounds with outstanding length. Every pound of Walker was felt on the practice field, where he routinely utilized power to overwhelm offensive linemen. The Wildcats performer could be downright dominant in the right scheme.

Anthony Belton, OT, NC State

NC State offensive tackle Anthony Belton consistently stonewalled pass rushers in protection drills. Belton possesses raw power and length to dominate, winning the weigh-in process by clocking in at 6-foot-5 and 345 pounds with arms longer than 35 inches. Plug-and-play tendencies are present.

Elijah Arroyo, TE, Miami

Miami Hurricanes tight end Elijah Arroyo was moving around like a legitimate flex-weapon. Rep after rep, Arroyo displayed an ability to defeat coverages and make explosive plays deep down the field. A vertical threat in waiting, he pairs manipulating defensive leverage with strong hands at the catch point.

Omarr Norman-Lott, DT, Tennessee

No defensive lineman was quicker off the ball during Tuesday's American Team practice than Tennessee's Omarr Norman-Lott. Norman-Lott has lightning-quick get-off. It gave him a routine advantage on Tuesday. He’s being underrated as a potential top-50 selection.

Josh Conerly Jr., OT, Oregon

Josh Conerly Jr. enjoyed a steady morning practice, winning the majority of his reps in pass protection. With so much uncertainty amidst this offensive tackle class, Conerly Jr. is in the mix to be the first blocker drafted. Additional productive showings similar to Tuesday's would strengthen his chances.

Jalen Royals, WR, Utah State

Jalen Royals was a sturdy 210 pounds during the weigh-in process and it popped during practice. A vertical winner, Royals was consistently physical at the line of scrimmage, defeating jams while displaying a variety of releases to create separation. The Utah State receiver is built like a tank and understands how to utilize his physical tools to his advantage. The small-schooler proved he belonged on day one.