Five Players to Watch in the 2025 East-West Shrine Bowl

Kyle McCord, the nation's top passer from Syracuse University, is expected to climb the NFL draft boards after his impressive showing during East-West Shrine Bowl practices. With a standout performance in training sessions and a growing demand for quarterbacks in the league, analysts predict McCord's draft value will rise significantly. During the 2024 season, he threw for 4,779 yards and 34 touchdowns, steering Syracuse to a 10-win campaign and a spot in the national rankings after transferring from Ohio State to Syracuse for his final year.

In Syracuse's pro-style offense, he thrived within a system that utilized a variety of formations and personnel groups. McCord operated effectively under center, in shotgun, and from the pistol, excelling in a rhythm-based passing scheme that incorporated play-action and RPO concepts.

With ideal height, a solid frame, and high football intelligence, McCord demonstrates a sharp ability to dissect defenses and identify favorable matchups. Post-snap, he adjusts quickly, processes information efficiently, and delivers the ball on time with reliable arm strength. He consistently identifies his hot routes and safety valves, showing a clear understanding of situational football. His pocket awareness allows him to feel the rush, step up under pressure, and maintain composure while navigating the pocket.

This past season, Nash joined an elite group as just the fourth player to secure the FBS receiving triple crown in college football. He led the nation with an impressive 104 catches, racked up 1,382 yards, and found the end zone 16 times.

His natural ability shone brightly in the Mountain West Conference, particularly after he made a mid-career switch to the receiver position. This week presents a chance for Nash to prove that his skills can hold up against tougher competition.

Expect him to make a strong impression and potentially catch the attention of NFL teams eyeing talent for the mid-to-late rounds of the draft.

During the 2024 season, Sanders delivered a modest stat line, logging 67 tackles (45 solo), one sack, and a forced fumble. However, his campaign was hindered by injuries, including a fractured elbow early in the year.

While he may not have the same star power as his younger brother, Shedeur Sanders, the Colorado safety still possesses the potential to strengthen an NFL team's defensive depth. Scouts anticipate that Sanders could be selected in the late rounds, on Day 3 of the NFL Draft.

With a Hall of Famer as his father, Sanders brings a strong football pedigree, impressive game intelligence, and a physical edge that make him an intriguing prospect.

Though Sanders still needs refinement in his man-coverage technique, his sharp football IQ and knack for reading the game are qualities that could make him a valuable addition to an NFL defense.

His showing at the East-West Shrine Bowl will be pivotal in shaping his draft stock and could either fuel or temper the buzz surrounding the Sanders family name. A standout performance in this showcase could boost his reputation and provide another opportunity to prove himself against top-tier competition.

Although the Shrine Bowl boasts a wealth of top-tier talent, including projected top-three draft pick Shedeur Sanders, Bryant has been stealing the spotlight during the first two days of practice.

His performance has been nothing short of spectacular, and he’s lived up to his fiery reputation by engaging in some lively trash talk with opponents.

Known for his competitive edge and temper, Bryant consistently proves his skills on the field can back up his bold demeanor.

Widely regarded as one of the finest cornerbacks in Kansas football history, Bryant has a resume to match his talent. A 2024 second-team All-American, he also made history as the first Jayhawk to earn three consecutive First Team All-Big 12 honors.

While there are lingering concerns about his size—he tips the scales at just 175 pounds—Bryant's impressive performances at practice are boosting his draft stock. If his momentum continues, he could very well hear his name called during the NFL Draft this April.

With NFL scouts keeping a keen eye, Horn is carving out a reputation for himself, showing he's primed to take his game to the professional level.

While much of the spotlight at the East-West Shrine Bowl practices is on players striving to showcase their abilities, Horn has already started to capture attention with his undeniable talent.

Having spent two seasons at Colorado, where he shared the field with two-way sensation Travis Hunter, Horn delivered a stellar 2024 campaign, racking up 1,258 yards and 15 touchdowns. Although his 2024 numbers weren’t quite as electrifying, his 441 yards and one touchdown on 37 receptions were still enough to keep him on the radar of NFL teams.

Horn made the leap to Colorado after transferring from South Florida, navigating a challenging adjustment period. However, when Coach Deion Sanders took the reins of the Buffaloes in 2023, Horn began to hit his stride.

He quickly developed a strong connection with Sanders and the team, cementing himself as a key figure in Colorado’s wide receiver corps.