On Wednesday, the NFL Draft process received a jolt of new possibilities when the league announced that collegiate all-star games aren’t only for seniors anymore. In the past, players at the East-West Shrine Bowl, the Senior Bowl, and the HBCU Legacy Bowl had to have used up their academic eligibility, meaning they graduated from school.
According to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero, that process has changed. Now, these three bowls can invite underclassmen granted eligibility for the 2024 NFL Draft to participate in their events.
Underclassmen Now Eligible for Collegiate All-Star Games
This change will cause a seismic shift in strategy for all-star games wanting to add the best talent from around the country. Considering that 82 underclassmen declared for the 2023 NFL Draft, almost 100 more draftable players can now be considered for these prestigious events. That includes top quarterback prospects, often in their third season in college.
Now, Caleb Williams, Drake Maye, and Marvin Harrison Jr. could theoretically be on the field for any or all of these all-star games. Even if they don’t play and only practice and meet with teams, it’s an opportunity that could lead to a leg up come draft day. Now, the NFL Combine and pro days aren’t the only way for teams to meet with top talent.
MORE: Free NFL Mock Draft Simulator With Trades
This also increases potential intrigue in these events. For as much great attention as the all-star games bring, the star power in any draft class is often with the underclassmen. Defenders like Dallas Turner and Kool-Aid McKinstry immediately come to mind as potential benefactors.
We can now dream of potential practices between Harrison and McKinstry. We’ll see how the all-star games adjust their invite strategies, if it does at all, with this shift. Already, the Shrine Bowl has started announcing players who have been invited and accepted their invite to Frisco, Texas, for their event.