The 2026 NFL Draft is already shaping up to be a game-changer, and the East-West Shrine Bowl just gave us a tantalizing glimpse of the future. But here's where it gets controversial: while some prospects shone brightly, others left us wondering if they're truly ready for the big leagues. The West team secured a 21-17 victory over the East on Tuesday night, but the real winners were the eight standout players who made their mark on the field at The Star in Frisco, Texas. After a week of intense practices, these athletes didn't just participate—they dominated, leaving scouts and fans alike buzzing with excitement.
Last year, I highlighted receiver Efton Chism III, running back Jacory Croskey-Merritt, and cornerback Nohl Williams as top performers in the 2025 Shrine Bowl. Fast forward to today, and Croskey-Merritt has become a household name among Commanders fans, rushing for 805 yards and eight touchdowns as a rookie. Williams started five games for the Chiefs, breaking up seven passes, and Chism has been a key contributor for the Super Bowl-bound Patriots. And this is the part most people miss: these players weren't just one-hit wonders—they’ve proven their worth in the NFL, setting a high bar for this year’s prospects.
Without further ado, let’s dive into the eight players who stood out this year, along with 20 honorable mentions who are worth keeping an eye on. With the evaluation process ramping up over the next three months, these athletes are making their case for a spot in the draft, which kicks off on April 23 in Pittsburgh.
1. Shad Banks, LB, UTSA
Banks wasn’t just a defensive powerhouse—he was a special teams standout, too. His ability to make stops on the first two kickoffs showcased his versatility. On defense, he was everywhere, swallowing up running backs and avoiding blocks with ease. His knack for knocking down passes and disrupting zone coverage proved he’s a well-rounded player who can make an impact in multiple phases of the game.
2. Dean Connors, RB, Houston
Connors brought a unique blend of quickness and power to the field. His ability to spin off contact and avoid tacklers in the backfield was impressive, but it was his burst up the middle and open-field elusiveness that truly stood out. His cutback on the team’s first touchdown was a thing of beauty, leaving defenders in his wake.
3. Garrett DiGiorgio, OT, UCLA
DiGiorgio’s performance at right tackle was a masterclass in pass protection. While his average arm length might push him inside in the NFL, his strength as a run blocker was undeniable. His ability to reach defenders at the second level and pull across the formation will make him a favorite among offensive line coaches.
4. Mark Gronowski, QB, Iowa
Gronowski wasn’t just the game’s best quarterback—he was its Offensive MVP. His pocket presence and ability to shake off defenders were on full display, and his deep ball accuracy was a sight to behold. But here’s the real kicker: he even threw a key block on his team’s first touchdown, proving he’s not just a passer but a true team player.
5. Mason Reiger, Edge, Wisconsin
Reiger was a force to be reckoned with, earning Defensive MVP honors with three sacks, including a strip-sack in the third quarter. His closing speed and ability to pressure quarterbacks even when unblocked were game-changing. He didn’t just rush the passer—he dominated in the run game, too, setting up plays for his teammates.
6. Eric Rivers, WR/KR, Georgia Tech
Rivers may not have been the biggest receiver on the field, but he was the most reliable. His strong hands and quickness created separation, and his ability to turn upfield after the catch was crucial on the game-winning drive. His potential as a kick returner adds another layer to his already impressive skill set.
7. Trey Smack, K, Florida
Kickers rarely steal the spotlight, but Smack did just that with a 57-yard field goal that showcased his power and precision. His tackle on a kickoff return further proved he’s more than just a specialist—he’s a football player through and through.
8. Wesley Williams, Edge, Duke
Williams is known for his pass-rushing skills, but he showed he’s equally adept at stopping the run. His quickness off the edge and ability to explode into the backfield were on full display. His strip-sack in the end zone, recovered by his former teammate Aaron Hall for a touchdown, was the cherry on top of a stellar performance.
Honorable Mentions:
Lander Barton, Jalon Daniels, CJ Donaldson, Jaden Dugger, Joe Fagnano, Aaron Hall, TJ Harden, Eli Heidenreich, Michael Heldman, Domani Jackson, Dalton Johnson, Miller Moss, Febechi Nwaiwu, Dom Richardson, Karson Sharar, Bauer Sharp, James Thompson Jr., Chip Trayanum, Kaden Wetjen, and CJ Williams all showed flashes of brilliance, proving this draft class is deeper than ever.
Controversial Question: With so much talent on display, which of these prospects do you think will make the biggest impact in the NFL? And who do you think was overlooked? Let’s debate it in the comments—I’m eager to hear your take!
