Fantasy Insights and Player Breakdown: Your Shrine Bowl 2025 Offensive Guide
Kevin dives into every offensive position on the Shrine Bowl roster, highlighting player strengths using PFF profiles, a brief synopsis for each, and three must-watch prospects for fantasy football!
The Shrine Bowl is one of the most anticipated showcases for NFL hopefuls, offering scouts, coaches, and fans a glimpse of some of the most intriguing prospects outside of the spotlight. In this preview, we’ll take a deep dive into every offensive position group on the roster, providing a comprehensive breakdown of each player’s skill set, as analyzed through their PFF profiles, along with a brief synopsis of their journey and potential.
In addition to profiling every player, we’ll identify three players to keep an eye on for fantasy purposes, focusing on those who could become valuable assets in dynasty or redraft leagues. Whether you’re an avid fantasy manager or just love football, this preview has everything you need to get ready for the Shrine Bowl. Let’s dive in!
Quarterbacks
Syracuse QB Kyle Mccord
McCord’s journey through college football has been nothing short of remarkable. After transferring from Ohio State, he led Syracuse to its first 10-win season since 2018 and a Holiday Bowl victory. His 4,779 passing yards in 2024 topped the nation, breaking both ACC and Syracuse single-season records. He also set the ACC career passing record, throwing 34 touchdowns along the way. NFL evaluators are drawn to his sharp football IQ and ability to articulate offensive concepts, making his pre-draft interviews critical. Consistency during all-star games and workouts will be key as he continues to showcase his top-tier talent.
Colorado QB Shedeur Sanders
All eyes will be on Sanders at the Shrine Bowl, thanks to a collegiate career that’s been nothing short of electric. He began at Jackson State, amassing over 7,000 passing yards and 70 touchdowns while leading the Tigers to a 23-3 record and an HBCU Championship. After transferring to Colorado, Sanders played behind one of the worst offensive lines in the country but still thrived, throwing for over 4,100 yards and 37 touchdowns in 2024. Despite being the most sacked quarterback in back-to-back seasons, he earned accolades like Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year and the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award. His career stats—over 14,000 passing yards, 134 touchdowns, and a 70% completion rate—speak for themselves.
Indiana QB Kurtis Rourke
Rourke’s resilience defines his 2024 season, playing through a re-torn ACL and still delivering one of the best campaigns in Indiana history. He set a school record with 29 passing touchdowns, threw for 3,042 yards, and led the Hoosiers to the College Football Playoff. A Maxwell and Walter Camp Award semifinalist, Rourke is known for his efficiency, with only five interceptions on the season. While injuries may limit his mobility in pre-draft evaluations, his arm strength and accuracy should keep him in the conversation as a viable NFL prospect.
Minnesota QB Max Brosmer
A New Hampshire transfer, Brosmer quickly proved he belonged in the Big Ten, showcasing efficiency and confidence. He completed 66.5% of his passes for 2,828 yards, 18 touchdowns, and just six interceptions. His quick release and ability to deliver in tight windows stood out, ranking him among the nation’s best in off-target percentage. With a strong showing at the Shrine Bowl, Brosmer could significantly boost his draft stock.
Missouri QB Brady Cook
Cook’s career at Missouri solidified him as one of the program’s all-time greats. His 26-13 record as a starter ranks second in school history, and he became the first Tigers quarterback to surpass 9,000 passing and 1,000 rushing yards in a career. Cook is a dual-threat player with a knack for consistency, finishing with over 10,000 yards of total offense and ranking top-five in multiple school passing categories. His leadership and production make him a name to watch for NFL teams seeking a reliable and versatile quarterback.
North Dakota State QB Cam Miller
Miller’s legacy at NDSU is cemented with two national championships and 45 career wins, placing him fourth in FCS history. His 2024 season was a masterpiece, with over 3,200 passing yards, 33 touchdowns, and just four interceptions. Add in 631 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns, and you have one of the most complete seasons from an FCS quarterback. Miller’s career stats include a 69.3% completion rate and over 12,000 total yards, highlighting his ability to dominate both through the air and on the ground.
Auburn QB Payton Thorne
Thorne brought veteran leadership to Auburn after transferring from Michigan State, where he was a two-time team captain. He threw for 2,713 yards, 21 touchdowns, and nine interceptions in 2024 while contributing on the ground with 425 rushing yards. Over his collegiate career, Thorne totaled nearly 9,300 passing yards and 49 touchdowns, adding mobility to his arsenal with several rushing scores.
Running Backs
Texas RB Jaydon Blue
Jaydon Blue’s decision to declare for the draft wasn’t shocking, even though he had eligibility left and wasn’t the primary rusher in Texas’ backfield. Despite splitting carries, Blue was a touchdown machine, leading the team with 14 total scores (8 rushing, 6 receiving). When given opportunities, he delivered, averaging over 83 rushing yards per game in contests where he saw double-digit carries. His versatility shines as a dual-threat weapon, with 42 receptions for 368 yards and six touchdowns through the air to complement his 730 rushing yards. While his production dipped due to Quintrevion Wisner’s emergence and some ball security issues, Blue’s combination of size, speed, and playmaking ability makes him an intriguing prospect.
Arkansas RB Ja’Quinden Jackson
Ja’Quinden Jackson put together a strong campaign at Arkansas, racking up 790 rushing yards and 15 touchdowns in just 10 games. His standout performance came against Oklahoma State, where he ran for 149 yards and three touchdowns on 24 carries. Jackson, a former Utah transfer, has shown he can be a bruising power back who thrives in traffic, breaking tackles and weaving through defenders with ease. Injuries limited his impact at times, but his 5.3 yards per carry and PFF grades (82.7 offensive, 86.6 rushing) highlight his potential. While his decision to forego his final year of eligibility might surprise some, Jackson’s blend of size and physicality should help him carve out a role at the next level.
Cincinnati RB Corey Kiner
Corey Kiner capped his senior year with 1,153 rushing yards, showcasing his consistency as a dependable contributor for Cincinnati. With over 2,500 career rushing yards and a history of leading RB rooms, Kiner brings experience and leadership to the table. A former Mr. Ohio Football, Kiner’s high school dominance laid the groundwork for his collegiate success. His footwork, balance, and speed make him a change-of-pace back who can provide valuable snaps in a committee. While he may not project as a workhorse, his versatility and skill set should earn him opportunities in rotational backfields at the next level.
Florida RB Montrell Johnson
Montrell Johnson’s career has been defined by his knack for rising to the occasion. Starting at Louisiana with Billy Napier, Johnson burst onto the scene with 12 touchdowns as a freshman before following Napier to Florida. Over three years with the Gators, Johnson became a steady force, surpassing 3,000 career rushing yards and demonstrating an ability to perform in big moments. Injuries limited his senior campaign, but he still managed 593 yards and six touchdowns on 100 carries. A milestone-driven player, Johnson’s consistency and big-play ability—highlighted by his 99-yard touchdown as a freshman—make him a solid mid-round prospect with upside as a dependable backfield option.
Texas Tech RB Tahj Brooks
Tahj Brooks rewrote the Texas Tech record books, finishing his career with 4,557 rushing yards to become the school’s all-time leader. Known for his durability and ability to handle heavy workloads, Brooks showcased his workhorse potential with multiple games of 25+ carries in consecutive seasons. His compact frame and excellent contact balance make him a nightmare for defenders, consistently churning out extra yards after contact. Brooks’ ability to sustain production despite an increased workload should make him a highly appealing prospect for teams looking for a reliable and physical ball-carrier.
Clemson RB Phil Mafah
Phil Mafah is a powerhouse runner with a bruising style that punishes defenders. Known for his physicality and contact balance, Mafah excels at breaking arm tackles and maintaining forward momentum. His strong frame and vision allow him to press the line of scrimmage and find running lanes, while his stiff arm helps him create separation at the second level. Despite battling injuries, Mafah still posted 1,115 yards and eight touchdowns this season, solidifying his reputation as a tough and effective downhill runner. His style makes him an appealing option for teams needing a physical presence in their backfield.
South Carolina RB Raheim Sanders
Raheim Sanders rebounded this season with 881 rushing yards and 11 touchdowns for South Carolina after transferring from Arkansas. Despite battling a knee injury early in the year, he delivered when healthy, including a 103-yard performance against Florida. Sanders’ sophomore campaign at Arkansas remains a highlight, with 1,443 rushing yards and All-SEC honors to his name. As a versatile back with receiving ability (316 yards and 2 TDs this year), Sanders combines power, speed, and versatility, making him a valuable asset for any offense. His leadership as a team captain only enhances his appeal.
Arizona RB Jacory Corskey-Merritt
Jacory Croskey-Merritt flashed big-time potential in 2023, rushing for 1,190 yards and 17 touchdowns for New Mexico. A two-time flip between Arizona and Ole Miss added some drama to his career, but his talent speaks for itself. In limited action this season due to eligibility concerns, Croskey-Merritt showed his explosiveness with 106 yards and a touchdown in his lone game. Averaging 6.3 yards per carry in his breakout season, he has the tools to emerge as a dynamic offensive weapon if given the opportunity.
Wide Receivers
Colorado WR Will Sheppard
Will Sheppard has consistently shown growth throughout his college career, starting at Vanderbilt and later transferring to Colorado under Deion Sanders. Standing 6’3” and weighing 205 pounds, Sheppard thrives in contested catch situations, showcasing reliable hands and physicality that make him a threat in one-on-one matchups. His production has remained steady across different systems, including 48 catches for 620 yards and six touchdowns at Colorado. While he lacks elite separation ability, his frame and ball skills could make him a late-round steal in the NFL Draft, offering depth and potential as a possession receiver.
Colorado WR LaJohntay Wester
LaJohntay Wester is a versatile and electric playmaker who made a name for himself at FAU before transferring to Colorado. Over his collegiate career, Wester has demonstrated impressive production, including over 900 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns in 2024. He combines creativity, explosiveness, and a knack for finding space, making him a multi-phase asset who can impact games as a receiver and a special teams contributor. While he may not excel in contested catches, his ability to create mismatches and his versatility on special teams make him a valuable offensive chess piece for NFL teams needing playmaking options.
Colorado WR Jimmy Horn
Jimmy Horn Jr. brings elite speed and return game potential to the table. A former standout at USF before transferring to Colorado, Horn has flashed as a vertical threat and in open-field situations. Despite his athleticism, Horn’s skill set leans one-dimensional, with room to grow in terms of physicality and route refinement. His best fit at the next level is as a return specialist and gadget player in a spread offense that maximizes his speed. With 441 yards and a touchdown in 2024, along with solid kick and punt return numbers, Horn offers immediate special teams value while teams groom his receiving ability.
Nebraska WR Isaiah Neyor
Isaiah Neyor has had a unique journey, including stints at Wyoming, Texas, and Nebraska. He’s shown flashes of brilliance, particularly in his ability to stretch the field with big plays, as seen in his 2024 performance with 34 receptions for 455 yards and five touchdowns. Standing 6’3”, Neyor excels as a vertical threat with a knack for making contested catches. Despite a rollercoaster collegiate career marked by injuries and transfers, he’s a reliable deep target with upside as a complementary receiver in the NFL.
Maryland WR Kaden Prather
Kaden Prather’s size (6’3”, 210 pounds) and production make him an intriguing NFL prospect. After transferring from West Virginia to Maryland, Prather became a consistent presence in the Terrapins’ offense, finishing with 56 receptions for 624 yards and four touchdowns in 2024. He thrives as a contested-catch specialist and has shown flashes of being a dependable target in critical moments. While his route running could use refinement, his frame and ability to win 50-50 balls make him a valuable red-zone option and a potential depth piece for NFL teams.
Ole Miss WR Tre Harris
Tre Harris has first-round potential and the tools to become a starting NFL wide receiver. At 6’2” with a solid frame, Harris combines body control, physicality, and route-running ability to dominate in mismatches. He’s productive in jump-ball situations and is versatile enough to play both outside and in the slot. While his route tree remains limited due to scheme constraints at Ole Miss, Harris has demonstrated enough polish to suggest he can grow into a reliable option for any passing attack. Teams undervaluing him as a third-round prospect are overlooking a player who could quickly become a cornerstone receiver at the next level.
Ole Miss WR Juice Wells
Juice Wells has had a rollercoaster college career, starting strong at James Madison before transferring to South Carolina, where he quickly became Spencer Rattler’s go-to guy. Despite putting up solid numbers in 2022, his past two seasons have been riddled with injuries, including a foot issue that limited his impact. This year, he bounced back somewhat at Ole Miss, tallying 28 catches for 553 yards and six touchdowns. Wells has undeniable talent but hasn’t lived up to expectations lately. A standout Shrine Bowl performance could be his ticket to a Combine invite and a shot at elevating his draft stock.
Pittsburgh WR Konata Mumpfield
Konata Mumpfield has steadily climbed the ranks from his humble beginnings as a two-star recruit at Akron. After a breakout freshman season that earned him Freshman All-American honors, he transferred to Pitt and continued to be productive. Over three seasons with the Panthers, Mumpfield racked up 154 receptions for 1,940 yards and 11 touchdowns, ranking 10th all-time in Pitt history for catches. This season, he thrived in Kade Bell’s offense, setting career highs in receptions (52) and yards (813). Mumpfield’s reliable hands and ability to shine in big games make him a name to watch for fantasy relevance.
Auburn WR KeAndre Lambert-Smith
KeAndre Lambert-Smith’s journey has been marked by consistent production and steady improvement. After starting his career at Penn State, where he recorded 126 catches for 1,721 yards and 11 touchdowns, he transferred to Auburn for his final season. Lambert-Smith made an immediate impact, posting 50 receptions for 981 yards and eight touchdowns, earning second-team All-SEC honors. With 176 career catches and over 2,600 receiving yards, he brings a wealth of experience and versatility to the table. His route-running and ability to create separation make him a polished prospect with significant upside.
Louisville WR Ja’Corey Brooks
Ja’Corey Brooks made a big splash after transferring from Alabama to Louisville, where he established himself as one of the top wideouts in the ACC. He posted an impressive 1,013 yards on 61 receptions and added nine touchdowns, becoming just the 11th player in program history to surpass 1,000 receiving yards in a season. Brooks has proven his ability to step up in key moments throughout his career, including a clutch performance in the Iron Bowl at Alabama. With size, speed, and a knack for making plays in the red zone, he’s a high-upside prospect for NFL teams.
Tennessee WR Dont’e Thornton
Dont’e Thornton’s career has been a mix of untapped potential and flashes of brilliance. The former Oregon standout transferred to Tennessee, where he showcased his big-play ability, leading the nation with 25.4 yards per reception. Over his college career, Thornton totaled 65 catches for 1,426 yards and 10 touchdowns. With elite speed and a track background, Thornton has the tools to be a deep threat in the NFL. However, his development and consistency will be key to unlocking his full potential.
UNLV WR Ricky White
Ricky White has quietly put together an outstanding college career after transferring from Michigan State to UNLV. Over three seasons with the Rebels, he amassed 3,143 yards and 23 touchdowns on 228 catches, earning back-to-back first-team All-Mountain West honors. White also stood out on special teams, earning the conference’s Special Teams Player of the Year award. His production and versatility, particularly as a punt coverage ace, give him a strong case to make an NFL roster.
Miami WR Sam Brown
Sam Brown has had a journeyman college career, playing at West Virginia, Houston, and finally Miami, where he put up 36 catches for 509 yards and two touchdowns this past season. Over five years, he totaled 149 receptions for 1,903 yards and nine touchdowns. While his numbers don’t jump off the page, Brown’s experience and solid fundamentals make him a reliable depth option with some upside as a pro.
San Jose State WR Nick Nash
Nick Nash has been nothing short of spectacular, becoming just the fourth player in FBS history to achieve the receiving Triple Crown. His 104 receptions, 1,382 yards, and 16 touchdowns this season set multiple school records at San Jose State. Despite transitioning to receiver only two years ago, Nash’s ability to consistently produce—highlighted by leading the nation in receptions per game and yards per game—makes him a standout prospect. While his age may be a concern, his hands and football IQ could make him a hidden gem in the draft.
Miami WR Jacolby George
Jacolby George has been a consistent No. 2 option at Miami, putting up solid numbers with 110 receptions for 1,616 yards and 16 touchdowns over the past two seasons. His polished route-running and ability to adjust to NFL-level schemes make him a prospect to keep an eye on. George’s draft stock may hinge on his ability to separate himself during the Shrine Bowl and the pre-draft process.
Oregon WR Traeshon Holden
Holden saved his best for last during his final season at Oregon, showcasing his potential with 45 catches, 718 yards, and five touchdowns. His standout performances came in big moments, including a 149-yard outing against Michigan and a two-touchdown showcase in the Rose Bowl against Ohio State. Originally transferring from Alabama, Holden transitioned from a rotational role with the Crimson Tide to becoming a key contributor for Oregon, proving his value as a Z receiver. While his career at Alabama didn’t reach the same heights (46 catches over three seasons), Holden’s ability to step up in big games has him on the radar heading into the Shrine Bowl.
Georgia WR Dominic Lovett
Dominic Lovett’s time at Georgia was solid, though it didn’t quite match the production of his Missouri days. In 2024, Lovett posted 59 receptions for 607 yards and six touchdowns, following up a similar campaign the year before. His 2022 season at Missouri, where he tallied 846 yards, remains his peak production, as he led the Tigers in receiving against top-tier defenses like Georgia. Georgia’s WR group struggled as a whole in 2024, leading the FBS in drops, but Lovett’s reliability and polished route-running give him a chance to impress scouts at the Shrine Bowl.
Syracuse WR Jackson Meeks
After transferring from Georgia, Jackson Meeks took a massive leap forward in his lone season with Syracuse, cementing himself as one of the top wideouts in the ACC. With 78 catches, 1,021 yards, and seven touchdowns, Meeks became a consistent and dependable weapon in Syracuse’s high-octane passing attack. His breakout performance helped the Orange to a 10-win season and boosted his draft stock significantly. Meeks’ solid hands and experience in a pro-style system led by Kyle McCord make him a name to watch in the Shrine Bowl. With limited opportunities to shine, Meeks will need to capitalize to prove he belongs at the next level.
Missouri WR Theo Wease Jr.
Theo Wease Jr. capped off his college career as Missouri’s top receiver, leading the team with 60 receptions for 884 yards and four touchdowns in 2024. His consistency stood out, with 50-plus yards in 10 games and two 100-yard performances against Buffalo and Arkansas. The Allen, Texas native has been a steady producer throughout his career, totaling over 2,600 receiving yards and 20 touchdowns across stints at Oklahoma and Missouri. Wease’s reliable hands and knack for finding the end zone (touchdowns in four straight seasons) make him a valuable asset heading into the Shrine Bowl, where he’ll look to showcase his skills for NFL scouts.
Tight Ends
Auburn TE Rivaldo Fairweather
Fairweather made a name for himself after transferring from FIU to Auburn, where he quickly became the team’s top receiver in 2023, posting 38 catches for 394 yards and six touchdowns. While his 2024 stats (31 receptions, 372 yards, two touchdowns) were a slight step back, he continues to showcase his ability as a pass-catcher. With efforts from the coaching staff to develop him into a true three-down tight end, Fairweather’s improved blocking and versatility could elevate his draft stock. Fantasy managers should keep an eye on him as a sleeper candidate with long-term upside.
Syracuse TE Oronde Gadsden II
Gadsden is a matchup nightmare as a hybrid F-tight end with the ability to play multiple positions, including H-back and power-slot. His unique blend of speed and physicality allows him to exploit smaller defenders in the slot or create separation on deeper routes. After transitioning from wide receiver to tight end, Gadsden had a breakout 2022 season, leading the nation’s tight ends with 969 yards. Following a redshirt year in 2023 due to injury, he bounced back in 2024 with an impressive 73 catches for 934 yards and seven touchdowns. NFL teams will value his receiving prowess and versatility, making him a prime fantasy asset in tight end-friendly schemes.
Texas Tech TE Jalin Conyers
Conyers has flashed athleticism and versatility throughout his career, starting at Oklahoma before thriving at Arizona State and Texas Tech. His college numbers (104 catches for 1,166 yards and 11 touchdowns) don’t jump off the page, but his size, ball skills, and ability to contribute as a receiver and occasional runner (30 rushes for 123 yards and three scores) make him intriguing. To reach his potential as an all-around tight end, Conyers must refine his blocking and route running. Fantasy managers should view him as a developmental prospect with high upside.
Iowa TE Luke Lachey
Iowa’s reputation as "Tight End U" sets high expectations, but injuries and inconsistency have hampered Lachey’s career. After showing promise in 2022 (28 catches for 398 yards and four touchdowns), he’s struggled to maintain momentum, logging just 27 catches for 227 yards in 2024. While the physical tools and lineage from Iowa’s elite tight-end pipeline are there, his recent production raises questions. Lachey will need a strong pre-draft process to regain his footing as a potential NFL contributor.
Notre Dame TE Mitchell Evans
Evans has been a consistent performer for Notre Dame, using his 6’5", 253-pound frame to create mismatches in the passing game. With 39 catches for 369 yards and three touchdowns in 2024, he’s demonstrated reliable hands and football IQ, excelling in 12-personnel formations as both a blocker and receiver. While he won’t wow with elite stats, Evans offers steady production and versatility, making him a solid depth option for NFL teams and a potential fantasy contributor in deeper leagues.
Ole Miss TE Caden Prieskorn
Prieskorn burst onto the scene at Memphis in 2022, earning Mackey Award semifinalist honors. His transfer to Ole Miss brought fewer statistical highs, but his tape shows a tight end who has refined his blocking and can work as a reliable intermediate target. While not the most agile, Prieskorn’s ability to improve year over year and contribute in both the passing and run games makes him a late-round draft prospect.
Towson TE Carter Runyon
Runyon’s journey from D3 Shenandoah University to Towson has been remarkable. In 2023, he led Towson in all major receiving categories, earning All-American honors and backing it up with another strong 2024 campaign (45 catches, 502 yards, five touchdowns). His size (6’6", 235 lbs), excellent PFF grades, and small-school dominance make him a fascinating sleeper for teams looking for upside. For fantasy managers, Runyon could be this year’s small-school darling with potential as a late-round steal.
Georgia TE Ben Yurosek
Yurosek began his career at Stanford with a breakout 2021 campaign (653 yards, three touchdowns) but struggled to maintain that level of production, even after transferring to Georgia in 2024. His one season with the Bulldogs was disappointing (15 catches, 185 yards), as he found himself in a rotational role. Despite his limited impact, Yurosek’s combination of size and early-career promise makes him an intriguing prospect for NFL teams willing to bet on his untapped potential. For fantasy purposes, he’s more of a wait-and-see player who will need the right situation to thrive.
Three Players To Watch For Your Rookie Drafts
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