The 2026 Panini Senior Bowl kicks off Saturday at 1:30 p.m. Arrowhead Time, airing on NFL Network - and for NFL hopefuls, this is more than just an exhibition.
It’s a final, full-speed audition in pads before the lights turn to Indianapolis and the NFL Combine. The week of practice has already shaken up draft boards, with several players making strong cases to rise - or fall - in the eyes of scouts and decision-makers.
Here’s a breakdown of five names to keep a close eye on when the game gets underway, especially if you’re thinking in terms of how they might fit in Kansas City red and gold.
1. Zion Young, EDGE, Missouri
Zion Young didn’t just show up to Mobile - he made it his stage. The former Missouri Tiger has been one of the most talked-about players throughout the week, and for good reason.
At 6'5", 262 pounds with 33.48-inch arms, Young checks all the boxes physically for an NFL edge rusher. But it’s not just about measurements - his blend of power and bend has made him a nightmare for offensive tackles during practice reps.
Young came into the week projected as a Day 2 pick, but the way he’s dominated in drills has his stock trending up - fast. He’s not likely to be in play for the Chiefs at No. 9 overall, but if he’s still on the board at 40, that could be a tempting value pick. With his size, traits, and trajectory, Young looks like a player who could contribute early and grow into a major role in a defensive rotation.
2. Lee Hunter, DT, Texas Tech
While most eyes were on his teammate David Bailey coming into the week, Lee Hunter has forced scouts to pivot. The 6'3", 320-pound defensive tackle has been a force in the trenches during Senior Bowl practices, showing off both the anchor to hold the point of attack and the burst to get into the backfield.
Hunter’s versatility is what makes him especially intriguing. He can play the nose, handle double teams, and still flash enough quickness to disrupt plays as a 3-technique. That kind of flexibility is gold in today’s NFL, and it’s why his name is now being floated in mid-first-round territory.
If Kansas City decides to move back from the ninth pick, Hunter could be a smart target. He’s the type of interior presence who could grow into a foundational piece - especially in a defense that values physicality and versatility up front.
3. Beau Stephens, G, Iowa
Beau Stephens may not be generating the loudest buzz, but make no mistake - he’s been one of the steadiest performers in Mobile. The Iowa product - and Blue Springs native (shoutout, Wildcats) - has quietly handled some of the top defensive line talent in the country all week.
Stephens earned All-Conference honors during his time at Iowa, and he’s showing why. He’s technically sound, strong at the point of attack, and versatile enough to play either guard spot. There’s even talk that he could be cross-trained at center at the next level.
For the Chiefs, Stephens could be a smart Day 3 pick - someone who could provide immediate depth behind one of the league’s best interior lines, and potentially develop into a starter down the line. Local ties aside, he’s a name worth watching.
4. Tim Keenan, DT, Alabama
Tim Keenan isn’t flashy, but he’s the kind of player who does the dirty work that makes everyone else’s job easier. At 6'1", 330 pounds, Keenan is a classic run-stuffer - a space-eater with the raw power to anchor against double teams and clog interior lanes.
While he’s not the type to rack up sacks or headline highlight reels, Keenan has value as a rotational nose tackle who can help shut down opposing ground games. He’s likely to be a Day 3 pick, but for a team like the Chiefs that could use depth on the interior, he’s a developmental option with upside.
5. Jacob Rodriguez, LB, Texas Tech
Rodriguez was one of college football’s top defenders in 2025, and he’s carried that momentum into Senior Bowl week. A middle linebacker at Texas Tech, he’s shown the kind of athleticism and coverage chops that project well to the weak-side spot in the NFL.
What makes Rodriguez stand out is his football IQ and range. He’s instinctive, quick to diagnose plays, and fluid in space - all traits that would make him a great fit in Steve Spagnuolo’s defense. Kansas City may not have linebacker at the top of its needs list, but adding Rodriguez to a group that already includes Nick Bolton and Drue Tranquill would give the Chiefs excellent depth and injury insurance.
If Bolton were to miss time, Rodriguez could step in and keep the unit humming. He’s a plug-and-play type who could contribute right away on special teams and grow into a bigger role.
Other Names to Watch
Defensive Line:
- LT Overton (EDGE, Alabama) - Long, athletic, and disruptive off the edge.
- TJ Parker (EDGE, Clemson) - High-motor pass rusher with strong technique.
- Caleb Banks (DT, Florida) - Raw but powerful interior lineman.
- Tyreak Sapp (EDGE, Florida) - Explosive first step and upside as a situational rusher.
- Darrell Jackson (DT, Florida State) - Quick interior presence with pass-rush potential.
- Derrick Moore (EDGE, Michigan) - Physical and relentless off the edge.
- Chris McClellan (DT, Missouri) - Local product with solid size and strength.
Offensive Line:
- Gennings Dunker (OT, Iowa) - Big frame, solid footwork, and a mauler in the run game.
- Markel Bell (OL, Miami) - Versatile lineman with starting potential.
Off-Ball Defenders:
- Daylen Everette (CB, Georgia) - Physical corner with great length.
- Zakee Wheatley (S, Penn State) - Ballhawk safety with good range.
- Nnami Obiazor (LB, TCU) - Athletic linebacker who flies to the football.
Skill Positions:
- Justin Joly (TE, NC State) - Reliable hands and sneaky athleticism.
- Malachi Fields (WR, Notre Dame) - Big-bodied target with red zone upside.
- Sam Roush (TE, Stanford) - Smooth route runner and solid blocker.
- Ja’Kobi Lane (WR, USC) - Playmaker with size and body control.
- J’Mari Taylor (RB, Virginia) - Shifty back with pass-catching ability.
- John Michael Gyllenborg (TE, Wyoming) - Physical tight end who can contribute in-line.
Bottom Line:
The Senior Bowl is always a proving ground, and this year’s group is no exception.
For teams like the Chiefs - who are always thinking a few moves ahead - this game offers a final, valuable look at players who could be part of the next wave in their championship window. Whether it’s a Day 1 starter or a developmental gem, Saturday’s action could go a long way in shaping the upcoming draft.