Five Standouts from the Senior Bowl That Might Catch the Attention of the Cincinnati Bengals in the 2024 NFL Draft
The 2024 Senior Bowl marked my inaugural experience, and it was truly enjoyable, assuring it won’t be my last. The live evaluation of players, some facing superior talent compared to their college matchups, provided enlightening insights. While identifying the week’s risers and fallers may not definitively determine their draft stock, the process is undeniably enjoyable.
Here, I highlight five players who impressed me during the Senior Bowl and whom the Bengals could consider targeting in the upcoming 2024 NFL Draft:
1. Christian Haynes, Interior Offensive Lineman, Connecticut
Haynes, though undersized at 6-2 and 318 pounds, displayed physical prowess, showcasing his anchoring skills and effectiveness as a run game contributor. Voted the best offensive lineman by his peers, Haynes elevated his standing, reinforcing his position as a potential draft riser following a standout performance.
2. Braden Fiske, Defensive Tackle, Florida State
Initially not high on my radar, Fiske emerged as a dominant force during the Senior Bowl, overcoming his shorter arm length (31 inches) to consistently excel in one-on-one situations. His ability to convert speed to power as a rusher, coupled with impressive run defense and leverage manipulation, positions Fiske as a promising prospect in a shifting NFL defensive line landscape.
3. Kingsley Suamataia, Offensive Tackle, BYU
Despite concerns about fundamental development and discipline, Suamataia showcased significant progress, displaying improved control and balance as a run blocker. His top-tier athleticism, combined with solid mirroring ability and anchor strength, marked him as a standout, making him my top riser of the week.
4. Brevyn Spann-Ford, Tight End, Minnesota
Having considered Spann-Ford as a potential pick for the Bengals before the Senior Bowl, his 6-6, 267-pound frame and adeptness in the run game were already notable. This week, he validated his receiving skills, standing out in a post-practice competition and securing the opening touchdown in Saturday’s game. A late-round prospect, Spann-Ford emerges as an attractive option for the Bengals in April.
5. Chau Smith-Wade, Cornerback, Washington State
Among the skill players, Smith-Wade distinguished himself with exceptional ball tracking and playmaking abilities, highlighted by two interceptions on Saturday. His electric return and game-clinching second interception showcased his standout performance during the week. With anticipation building for Smith-Wade’s combine numbers, he remains a player worth monitoring throughout the draft process.
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