2022 NFL Draft: 10 Prospects To Watch At The Shrine Bowl
The Shrine Bowl begins practice on Saturday, and there will be plenty of 2022 NFL Draft prospects to pay attention to in Las Vegas.
The college all-star circuit is well underway, as the Hula Bowl and NFLPA Bowl have conducted practices already. Another big step in the 2022 NFL Draft process is set to kick off, as the Shrine Bowl will have practice get underway on Saturday, with the game being played next Thursday on NFL Network. With measurements getting done today in Las Vegas, the draft really does feel like it’s back now.
As the Shrine Bowl continues for the next several days, what 2022 NFL Draft prospects should everyone have their eyes on. Let’s get to 10 prospects who could have a big week and make an impact on Sundays.
Pierre Strong, RB, South Dakota State
The running back class looks deep on day two and three for the 2022 NFL Draft, and make sure to add Pierre Strong to that list. The Jackrabbit running back rushed for 1,673 yards and 18 touchdowns in 2021, averaging seven yards per carry and catching 22 passes on the year as well. He can be a factor on all three downs and offers quite a bit as a pass protector as well.
Zach Tom, OT, Wake Forest
There have been some impressive measurement numbers for offensive linemen so far at the Shrine Bowl, but Zach Tom might go out and just dominate on the field. Tom could see his name rise in draft circles quickly because of how technically refined and quick he is as a pass protector.
Alec Lindstrom, C, Boston College
The Boston College offensive line was one of the most experienced in college football in 2021, and that showed on the field. In a center class that seems a bit shallow right now, it opens the door for Alec Lindstrom to make some noise at the position. He’s rock solid in every facet of the game and brings good base traits to the table.
Derrick Deese Jr., TE, San Jose State
The tight end group looks deep in the 2022 NFL Draft, and there are many different types to watch for. Derrick Deese Jr. is a fun player at 6’4″ and 235 pounds. He may be a bit undersized, but he held up well as a blocker while averaging 15.5 yards per reception. Deese has impressive ball skills and functional athleticism.
Tyquan Thornton, WR, Baylor
Tyquan Thornton has a unique build at the wide receiver position, listed at 6’3″ and just 182 pounds. He will likely need to add to that frame for the NFL, but he has impressive movement skills, great ball skills, and can separate with size and adjustment skills at the catch point.
Kellen Diesch, OL, Arizona State
Another athletic offensive lineman? Absolutely! Kellen Diesch is another potential riser at the tackle position, which is looking for risers after the top three, which are clearly in their own tier. Diesch is a very good space blocker with impressive straight line speed and footwork.
Qwynnterrio Cole, DB, Louisville
Qwynnterrio Cole transferred to Louisville from Alcorn State prior to the 2021 season, and his play stood out for the Cardinals. He finished with one interception and six passes defensed, while also sticking his nose into the run game with reckless abandon. Cole will be one to watch ahead of the draft in terms of versatile safeties.
Micah McFadden, LB, Indiana
The linebacker group in the 2022 NFL Draft is interesting, and the Shrine Bowl has a good one in Micah McFadden. McFadden may not flash in terms of elite athleticism, but his instincts, run fit skills, and ability to wrap up well in space will be things that NFL teams and scouts like to see. He has a big opportunity this week.
Matthew Butler, DT, Tennessee
The defensive tackle group isn’t a highlight in the draft for the second straight year, but there will always be very good role guys on day three. Matthew Butler is one of them. He has some juice off the line of scrimmage, strong hands, and can stack and shed while also flashing as a pass rusher.
Charleston Rambo, WR, Miami
After some extremely underwhelming seasons at Oklahoma, Charleston Rambo transferred to Miami, which paid off in a big way. He caught 79 passes for 1,172 yards and seven touchdowns while improving upon his footwork and route running skills.