Max Llewellyn’s college career has been defined by steady growth, physical presence, and a relentless motor-and now, he’s getting a well-earned shot to put it all on display in front of NFL eyes. The Iowa defensive lineman has officially accepted an invitation to the 2026 East-West Shrine Bowl, one of the premier pre-draft showcases for NFL hopefuls.
This is more than just another all-star game. The Shrine Bowl is a pivotal opportunity for prospects to boost their draft stock in front of scouts, coaches, and executives from all 32 NFL teams. For Llewellyn, it’s a major step forward-and a testament to the impact he’s had in Iowa City over the past five seasons.
Llewellyn becomes the first Hawkeye to accept an invite to this year’s Shrine Bowl, while several of his teammates are heading to other scouting events like the Panini Senior Bowl. Still, his presence at this showcase carries weight.
At 6-foot-5 and 263 pounds, Llewellyn has the frame and versatility that NFL teams covet. And over 42 career games, he’s shown he can produce, disrupt, and lead.
His 2025 campaign was particularly strong-starting all 12 games for Iowa, Llewellyn anchored the defensive front with a mix of power and technique that made life difficult for opposing offenses. Across his college career, he’s racked up 61 tackles, 20 tackles for loss, 14 sacks, 10 passes defended, three forced fumbles, and two fumble recoveries. That’s not just production-that’s playmaking.
The Shrine Bowl has long been a proving ground for under-the-radar talent and rising prospects alike. For Llewellyn, it’s a chance to show how his game translates against top-tier competition and under the watchful eyes of NFL decision-makers. Don’t be surprised if he turns some heads in Frisco.
He won’t be alone representing the Big Ten, either. USC linebacker Eric Gentry and three Michigan standouts-kicker Dominic Zvada, fullback Max Bredeson, and offensive guard Giovanni El-Hadi-are also set to participate. As of December 16, 29 players have accepted invitations, with more expected to join the roster as the game draws closer.
The 101st edition of the East-West Shrine Bowl kicks off at 6 p.m. CT on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, at Ford Center at The Star in Frisco, Texas. For players like Llewellyn, it’s not just another game-it’s a showcase, an audition, and potentially the start of a pro career.