The 2025 NFL Draft becomes clearer during this important two-week period that showcases all-star game activities. Prospects for the draft engage in drills, practices, and a game designed to showcase their skills. In addition to these on-field activities, teams have the opportunity to interview and coach the players in preparation for the upcoming Scouting Combine.

The 2025 East-West Shrine Game concluded its practices on Tuesday, ahead of Wednesday's media day and Thursday's game. This Shrine Game offers exceptional access for media and NFL scouts and has successfully attracted top senior and junior talent to compete. Notably, Shedeur Sanders participated in this week's events to connect with teams.

After observing all six practices and analyzing the individual drills for both the East and West rosters, we’ve identified the standout players. The Shrine Bowl is anticipated to produce a considerable number of draft picks, many of whom could become impactful players in the NFL as early as this fall.

2025 Shrine Bowl Practice Risers

Max Brosmer, QB, Minnesota

Max Brosmer emerged as a breakout player in 2024, seizing the opportunity presented by a larger role and making a name for himself at the Shrine Bowl. After playing four seasons at New Hampshire, he transferred to Minnesota, where he showcased his best performance amidst a higher level of competition. Standing 6-foot-2 and weighing 225 pounds, Brosmer effectively balanced being a game manager with delivering crucial downfield throws that kept the Gophers' offense moving.

With smart decision-making and the athletic ability to create downfield plays when the pocket breaks down, Brosmer is well-positioned as a projected backup in the NFL. Teams are looking for trustworthy judgment coupled with some athleticism and creativity. At the Shrine Bowl, Brosmer appeared most at ease when playing under center, executing play-action, and successfully threading passes into tight spaces.

While Kyle McCord delivered impressive plays and explosive throws, teams have a clear understanding of his style. Brosmer, however, is more intriguing due to his ability to perform well under pressure and his superior athleticism. Although McCord might be selected higher, the difference is likely to be minimal. Both are projected to be backups, but Brosmer’s potential as a game manager who can lead a team to victory has become evident.

Cobee Bryant, CB, Kansas

Slim cornerbacks lacking elite length will always face certain limitations that can impact their draft stock and long-term value, but these traits aren't the sole determinants of their potential. A great example of a player who surpasses physical constraints is Cobee Bryant. His performance at the Shrine Bowl was so impressive that he opted to sit out the remainder of the week after just two practices.

As an outstanding coverage specialist, Bryant possesses excellent ball skills and plays with a level of aggression that makes him a challenge for offenses. Standing at only 5-foot-11 and weighing 171 pounds, he has somewhat stiff hips compared to the ideal, yet his 31 ⅞ inch arms, experience, and self-assurance are significant assets. Importantly, he demonstrated growth throughout his time at Kansas.

After a solid 2023 season, he enjoyed an even better 2024 campaign. He achieved a personal best completion rate allowed of 54.3% while enhancing his missed tackle rate from 17.9% to 8.5%. His impressive ball skills have consistently compensated for the mistakes that can arise from his aggressive style, resulting in 13 interceptions and 18 pass deflections, set against seven touchdowns and 18 penalties given up.

The ideal draft range for Bryant is late Day 2 to early Day 3.

Jordan Phillips, DT, Maryland

There’s no doubt that Jordan Phillips was the standout performer at the Shrine Bowl throughout the week. The Maryland defensive tackle had demonstrated some potential over the past two years, amassing 57 tackles and no sacks, but this week he truly showcased his abilities. Scouts were curious about why the 6-foot-1, 318-pound player suddenly seemed to elevate his game.

Phillips dominated nearly every drill, including one-on-ones, displaying a variety of moves that indicated he is more than just a powerful run stuffer at the nose tackle position. His low-cut physique helps him anchor well in the run game and compensate for his average arm length. While that was anticipated, his quickness and pad level exceeded expectations compared to his previous tape.

Typically, run-stuffing nose tackles are selected later in Day 3 or may even go undrafted. However, if teams begin to see Phillips as a potential three-down player who can take on some 1-technique responsibilities and occasionally disrupt the backfield, he could rise to the fourth-round range, surpassing many more recognized prospects.

Jackson Meeks, WR, Syracuse

A few standout performers emerged at receiver during the Shrine Game practices, notably the three Colorado playmakers. However, Jackson Meeks wasn't initially on the radar like Will Sheppard, Jimmy Horn Jr., and LaJohntay Wester were leading up to this week. After transferring from Georgia last offseason, Meeks found a new home at Syracuse.

Standing 6-foot-2 and weighing 205 pounds, Meeks possesses greater speed, a wider catch radius, and dependable hands than one might expect from a player who took four years to truly shine. In 2024, he recorded 77 receptions on 115 targets, amassing 1,020 yards and seven touchdowns. Nearly 90% of his routes were run outside, with most of his impact occurring at the catch point rather than after.

Meeks excelled in contested catches and demonstrated impressive hands. He performed well when asked to execute a complete route tree beyond the basic concepts Syracuse utilized. His footwork is quick and precise on underneath routes, and he creates better separation on vertical routes than anticipated. He possesses the physical attributes of a No. 2 NFL receiver and is more talented than he is often credited for.

Chandler Martin, LB, Memphis

Shorter linebackers are more common in the game than you might think; players like Dre Greenlaw, Nakobe Dean, and Nick Bolton have thrived as sub-6-foot linebackers. Chandler Martin has the potential to be the next reliable, shorter linebacker patrolling the middle of a defense. Weighing in at 233 pounds, he possesses the athleticism and instincts needed to make an early impact.

His transition from East Tennessee State to Memphis resulted in an All-AAC selection, amassing 206 tackles, 10 sacks, and three interceptions in the last two seasons. Martin is a standout player who disrupts offenses and has a strong grasp of the game. His impressive range and comfort in coverage were particularly highlighted at the Shrine Bowl.

Martin frequently positions himself well against screens and short aerial attacks, with his closing speed and tenacity being major strengths. He demonstrated his physicality by forcing a fumble and proving he can hold his own against taller opponents in the NFL.

While off-ball linebackers may not be highly valued in the NFL, Martin possesses top-100 talent, particularly when compared to bigger names who might not perform as effectively.

Elijah Roberts, EDGE, SMU

Elijah Roberts, primarily utilized as a 290-pound defensive end at SMU, possesses the physical attributes that NFL teams look for in a player who can step into a role early in his professional career. After transferring from Miami to SMU for the 2023 season, Roberts quickly became a standout player due to his impressive combination of power and speed for his size. While he recorded only 21 tackles and half a sack during his time at Miami, he emerged as an All-American candidate at SMU.

In the past two years, he has accumulated 131 quarterback pressures and 17.5 sacks, establishing himself as a formidable pass-rusher in both the American and ACC conferences. Although his run defense has been solid, he can sometimes overcommit and pursue the ball carrier too aggressively. His 17.6% missed tackle rate highlights a tendency to struggle with discipline in gap control and maintaining his assignment.

Nonetheless, coaching him to rein in his over-aggressiveness is likely more feasible than addressing the opposite issue. His performance at the Shrine Bowl was especially encouraging, showcasing his impressive physical presence and creating challenges for opponents. He excelled in individual drills, leveraging his strength and a variety of inside counter moves.

Roberts should now be regarded as a top-100 prospect and will be particularly appealing as the initial group of pass-rushers is selected.

Honorable Mentions

There were so many standout performers we couldn't help but nominate some honorable mentions.

• Efton Chism, WR, Eastern Washington
• Kyle McCord, QB, Syracuse
• Jamon Dumas-Johnson, LB, Kentucky
• Will Sheppard, WR, Colorado
• Thomas Perry, IOL, Middlebury
• Jacolby George, WR, Miami