Three Arkansas Razorbacks are headed to one of the most pivotal stages of the NFL Draft process - the Senior Bowl in Mobile, Alabama. Running back Mike Washington, offensive guard Fernando Carmona, and defensive tackle Cameron Ball have each accepted invitations to the all-star showcase, marking a big moment for both the players and the program. These three are among the first prospects nationwide to commit to the event, which has long served as a proving ground for future NFL talent.
Let’s break down what each brings to the table - and why Mobile could be a launching pad for their professional careers.
Mike Washington: The Power Back with Something to Prove
Mike Washington might not have been a household name entering the 2025 season, but he’s leaving it as one of the more intriguing backs in this draft class. After transferring to Arkansas for his final collegiate year - following stints at New Mexico State and Buffalo - Washington wasted no time making his mark in Fayetteville.
At 6'2" and 228 pounds, Washington is built like a classic NFL workhorse. But what makes him stand out isn’t just his size - it’s how he uses it.
He runs with intent. There’s no wasted motion.
He hits the hole with authority, finishes runs with power, and rarely goes down on first contact. His 1,068 rushing yards on 168 carries - good for over 6 yards per tote - tell part of the story.
The other part? He added 28 receptions for 226 yards, showing off a level of versatility that wasn’t as prominent earlier in his career.
Washington’s game is tailor-made for the kind of physical, competitive environment the Senior Bowl thrives on. He’s not a burner, but he’s got more than enough juice to break off chunk plays, and scouts will be watching closely to see how he handles pass protection and route running - areas where he showed growth this season.
Cam Ball: Steady, Strong, and All Razorback
In an era where the transfer portal dominates headlines, Cam Ball stands out for a different reason - loyalty. He spent his entire college career at Arkansas, developing from a rotational piece into a cornerstone of the Razorbacks’ defense.
Ball’s 2024 season was his best yet: 46 total tackles, 1.5 sacks, and a consistent presence in the trenches. But beyond the stats, it’s his leadership and consistency that have defined his time in Fayetteville.
He entered the year with 39 games under his belt and 20 starts, and finished with 111 career tackles, 8 tackles for loss, and 3 sacks. He’s been a reliable, physical interior lineman who understands leverage, uses his hands well, and doesn’t shy away from the dirty work.
Representing Arkansas at SEC Media Days before the season was a nod to his leadership. Earning a Senior Bowl invite is a nod to his performance. And for NFL teams looking for a high-character, high-motor interior lineman who can anchor a rotation, Ball will be one to watch in Mobile.
Fernando Carmona: A Swiss Army Knife on the Offensive Line
Versatility is currency in the NFL - especially along the offensive line - and Fernando Carmona has plenty of it.
After transferring from San Jose State ahead of the 2024 season, Carmona stepped in at left tackle for Arkansas before sliding inside to left guard in 2025. That kind of flexibility isn’t just a luxury - it’s a major asset for teams looking to fill multiple roles with one roster spot.
Carmona’s size, footwork, and ability to adapt to different positions make him a compelling prospect. He’s shown he can handle edge rushers in space and hold his own in the phone booth against interior defenders.
The Senior Bowl, with its intense one-on-one drills and NFL-style practices, is the perfect setting for linemen like Carmona to separate themselves. If he can show consistency in technique and anchor ability against top-tier defensive talent, he’ll turn heads.
A Big Opportunity for Arkansas - and Possibly More to Come
The Senior Bowl isn’t just a game - it’s a week-long audition in front of every NFL team. For Mike Washington, Cam Ball, and Fernando Carmona, it’s the next step in their football journeys - and a chance to show they belong at the next level.
Each brings something different to the table: Washington’s bruising style and emerging versatility, Ball’s interior toughness and leadership, and Carmona’s plug-and-play potential across the offensive line. Together, they’ll represent Arkansas in one of the most important scouting events of the pre-draft calendar.
And with more invites still being sent out, don’t be surprised if a few more Razorbacks join them in Mobile. For now, though, these three will carry the flag - and they’re more than ready to make the most of the opportunity.