As the college football season winds down, the spotlight shifts from Saturday showdowns to the next big stage: the NFL Draft process. For thousands of seniors, the final whistle of bowl season marks the end of their playing days.
But for a select group-those with a shot at the next level-the journey is just getting started. And for several Texas A&M Aggies, that journey runs through the all-important postseason showcase circuit.
These all-star games-like the Panini Senior Bowl and the East-West Shrine Bowl-aren’t just ceremonial send-offs. They’re high-stakes auditions, where every snap is scrutinized by NFL scouts, GMs, and personnel directors.
While the Combine and pro days offer controlled environments for interviews and athletic testing, nothing replicates the value of live reps against top-tier competition. For players on the fringe of draft boards, these games can be the difference between a training camp invite and a draft-day phone call.
Texas A&M knows this process well. Back in 2021, quarterback Kellen Mond used the Senior Bowl to boost his draft stock, leading a comeback victory for the American team and showcasing his poise under pressure.
That performance helped propel him into the third round of the NFL Draft, eventually landing with the Minnesota Vikings. It's a reminder that these games can move the needle-for players and evaluators alike.
This year, the Aggies will once again be well represented across the postseason slate, with a handful of seniors accepting invitations to compete in front of NFL brass. Here's a closer look at who’s heading to Mobile and Frisco for their shot to impress.
Panini Senior Bowl Invitees:
- Nate Boerkircher (TE): A versatile tight end with the ability to contribute as both a pass catcher and blocker. He’ll have a chance to show how his skill set translates against top defensive talent.
- Dametrious Crownover (OL): With his size and athleticism, Crownover will be watched closely by teams looking for developmental upside along the offensive line.
- Will Lee III (DB): A physical defensive back who isn’t afraid to mix it up in coverage or run support. The one-on-one drills in Mobile will be a big test for him.
- Le’Veon Moss (RB): Moss brings a mix of power and burst to the backfield. If he can flash in pass protection and receiving drills, his stock could rise quickly.
- Cashius Howell (DE): A high-motor edge rusher who’ll get the chance to prove he can win against NFL-caliber tackles.
- Scooby Williams (LB): A rangy linebacker with sideline-to-sideline speed. His ability to cover tight ends and running backs in space will be under the microscope.
- Trey Zuhn (OL): Another key piece of the Aggies' offensive front, Zuhn will look to show consistency in his technique and footwork during practices.
The 2026 Panini Senior Bowl is set for January 31 at the University of South Alabama in Mobile, a familiar proving ground for future pros.
East-West Shrine Bowl Invitees:
- Albert Regis (DL): Regis brings strength and leverage to the interior defensive line. He’ll be looking to show he can disrupt from the inside against elite competition.
- Ar’maj Reed-Adams (OL): A steady presence up front, Reed-Adams will get the chance to show his ability to anchor in pass protection and move defenders in the run game.
- Tyler Onyedim (IDL): Another interior disruptor, Onyedim will look to turn heads with his first step and ability to penetrate gaps.
- Tyreek Chappell (CB): A confident corner with solid instincts, Chappell will be tested in man coverage-an area NFL teams are always eager to evaluate in live action.
The 2026 East-West Shrine Bowl kicks off January 27 at Ford Center at The Star in Frisco, Texas, giving scouts an up-close look at prospects in a pro-style setting.
For these Aggies, the postseason isn’t just a farewell tour-it’s a final chance to make a statement. Every rep, every matchup, every moment matters. And with NFL eyes locked in, the path from College Station to the pros runs straight through Mobile and Frisco.