Senior Bowl Day 1: Five Standouts Who Made a Statement in Mobile
The 2026 Senior Bowl is officially underway, and while Day 1 is typically more of a warm-up than a full-speed showcase, that didn’t stop several prospects from turning heads right out of the gate. Tuesday’s practice in Mobile, Alabama, gave scouts and coaches their first up-close look at some of the top upperclassmen in the country-and a few of them wasted no time making a strong first impression.
Here’s a breakdown of five players who stood out during Day 1 and why they’re already generating buzz heading into the rest of the week:
T.J. Parker, EDGE, Clemson - Power on Display
T.J. Parker came into the week with something to prove.
Once viewed as a surefire top-20 pick before the 2025 season, his stock took a hit after a quieter year than expected. But on Tuesday, Parker reminded everyone why he was so highly regarded in the first place.
The Clemson edge rusher looked every bit the part during team drills and one-on-ones. His power was overwhelming-on one rep, he long-armed an offensive tackle so violently that it looked like something out of a highlight reel.
Parker’s ability to convert strength into disruption was clear, and while he still needs to show he can win with more than just raw power, this was a strong opening statement. If he keeps this up, he could climb right back into the early-round conversation.
Colton Hood, CB, Tennessee - Sticky Coverage and Competitive Fire
Colton Hood came into the week as arguably the top cornerback in Mobile, and his Day 1 performance only reinforced that status. He wasn’t flawless-there were moments where his physicality at the top of routes bordered on too much-but his competitiveness and instincts were on full display.
During one-on-ones, Hood consistently mirrored receivers and made plays at the catch point, showing off his ability to stay connected through the route and finish with authority. He’s the type of corner who’s going to make every rep uncomfortable for opposing receivers. If you’re looking for a feisty, physical defensive back who’s not afraid to challenge everything, Hood’s your guy.
Gennings Dunker, OT, Iowa - Tough, Athletic, and Intriguing
Right tackle might not be the most glaring need for every team, but for those looking to bolster the offensive line, Gennings Dunker is a name to watch. The Iowa product brought a physical edge to Tuesday’s practice, especially during one-on-one drills, where he consistently anchored against power and showed enough lateral quickness to handle speed rushers.
Dunker’s blend of size, strength, and movement skills makes him an intriguing developmental prospect. He’s not a finished product yet, but there’s enough there to warrant a closer look, especially for teams looking to add depth or groom a future starter on the right side.
Ted Hurst, WR, Georgia State - One-Handed Catch Steals the Show
Every Senior Bowl has one or two moments that get everyone buzzing. On Tuesday, that moment belonged to Georgia State wideout Ted Hurst. During one-on-one drills, Hurst reeled in a jaw-dropping one-handed touchdown grab that immediately drew comparisons to some of the NFL’s flashiest receivers.
At 6-foot-3 and 207 pounds, Hurst has the size to win contested catches, but what stood out was his body control and concentration. Coming from a smaller school, he’s flying a bit under the radar, but plays like that will force scouts to take a closer look. He’s already generating Day 3 buzz, and with more performances like Tuesday’s, he could start climbing boards in a hurry.
Chris Johnson, CB, San Diego State - Smooth Transition, Strong Start
Making the jump from college to the Senior Bowl stage can be a tough adjustment, especially for players from smaller programs. But Chris Johnson didn’t look fazed in the slightest. The San Diego State cornerback was one of the most consistent defensive backs on the field Tuesday, showing fluid hips, solid technique, and the kind of confidence you want to see in a four-year starter.
He didn’t just look like he belonged-he looked like he was ready to compete. Johnson’s college production was impressive, and if he continues stacking good days, he’ll solidify himself as a name to watch in the middle rounds of the draft.
What’s Next
One day doesn’t make a draft stock, but it can certainly set the tone. The players who stood out on Tuesday did more than just flash-they laid a foundation. As the week progresses and the competition ramps up, the question becomes: who can build on that momentum?
If Day 1 was any indication, we’re in for a competitive and revealing week in Mobile.