Mizzou Football Makes Noise at Senior Bowl as Draft Season Heats Up
It’s Senior Bowl week down in Mobile, Alabama - and for several former Missouri Tigers, this is more than just another game. It’s a chance to elevate their NFL Draft stock in front of scouts, coaches, and decision-makers from every corner of the league. And so far, a couple of Mizzou standouts are making the most of their moment.
Zion Young Turns Heads Early
Defensive lineman Zion Young wasted no time in making an impression. On Day 1 of practice, he was named one of six standout performers by PFF College - a list that tends to get noticed in NFL circles.
That kind of recognition doesn’t just happen by accident. Young showed off the power, explosiveness, and motor that made him a force in the SEC, and now he’s proving he can do it against the best of the best from across the country.
For a player like Young, these practices carry real weight. The Senior Bowl isn’t just about the game itself - it’s about the one-on-one drills, the competitive reps, and how players respond to NFL coaching. Young’s strong start could be the beginning of a big week that pushes him further up draft boards.
Kevin Coleman Jr. Impresses in First Look
Wide receiver Kevin Coleman Jr. also made a strong first impression, with ESPN’s Jordan Reid highlighting his performance on Day 1. Coleman’s quickness and route-running stood out, and he showed the kind of polish that teams want in a slot receiver at the next level. He’s not just fast - he’s fluid, with the kind of body control that allows him to separate in tight windows.
Coleman’s showing is especially important in a receiver class that’s deep but competitive. Every rep counts, and if he continues to flash in practice and in Saturday’s game, he could carve out a solid draft-day rise.
Four Tigers in CBS Sports’ Top 150
As the NFL Draft looms in April, Missouri is quietly building a reputation as a program that develops pro-ready talent. Four Mizzou players are currently listed in CBS Sports’ Top 150 prospects - a testament to the work head coach Eli Drinkwitz and his staff have done in recruiting and development. The Senior Bowl is just the latest stage for these players to showcase what they can do.
Looking Ahead to Saturday
The Senior Bowl game is set for Saturday at 1:30 p.m. CST on NFL Network. It’s the final showcase of the week, and while the practices often carry more evaluative weight, a strong performance under the lights can still move the needle.
For Missouri fans, it’s a chance to see familiar faces take the next step toward their professional dreams. For NFL teams, it’s another data point in the long evaluation process.
And for the players? It’s an opportunity - and so far, Zion Young and Kevin Coleman Jr. are making the most of it.
Elsewhere in Mizzou Athletics:
Men’s Basketball Searching for Answers After Alabama Loss
Missouri men’s hoops is in need of a bounce-back. After a tough road loss to Alabama - one that echoed the earlier defeat to Illinois in how deflating it felt - the Tigers are staring down a critical stretch.
They responded to that Illinois loss with two big wins. Now, with Mississippi State up next, the question is whether they can regroup and make a late-season push toward the NCAA Tournament.
The path is there, but the margin for error is shrinking.
Bobby Washington Adds Depth to Linebacker Room
On the football recruiting front, linebacker Bobby Washington is officially on board. He’s the kind of player who might not make headlines right away, but his versatility and athleticism could quietly make a big impact across multiple units. For a defense that’s already trending upward, Washington is another valuable piece.
Track & Field Hosts Dr. Rick McGuire Invitational
Missouri’s indoor track and field team is back in action this weekend at the Hearnes Center, hosting the Dr. Rick McGuire Invitational.
It’s a two-day meet running Friday and Saturday, with the Tigers competing across a full slate of events. After a strong start to the season, this weekend presents another opportunity to build momentum heading into the heart of the indoor calendar.
Gymnastics Gearing Up for Style and Substance
Mizzou Gymnastics fans, take note - the Tigers are set to unveil four new leotard designs at upcoming home meets against LSU and Florida. The team’s flair for fashion is matched by its competitive edge, and the new looks only add to the anticipation for what’s shaping up to be another exciting season.
Next Up for Men’s Hoops: Mississippi State
After falling 90-64 to Alabama, Mizzou turns its attention to Mississippi State. Outside of standout guard Josh Hubbard, the Bulldogs haven’t been particularly threatening this season. For the Tigers, this is a must-win - a chance to right the ship and keep the dream of back-to-back NCAA Tournament appearances alive.
One game at a time. Beat Mississippi State, and go from there.
From the Senior Bowl to the hardwood, and from the track to the recruiting trail, it’s a pivotal week across Mizzou Athletics. Keep an eye on the Tigers - there’s plenty of storylines unfolding, and they’re just getting started.