Senior Bowl Day 3 winners, losers: DL Caleb Banks rises to the challenge

MOBILE, Ala. — The final day of practices at the Panini Senior Bowl gave prospects one last opportunity to change the narrative before Saturday’s game. For some, Thursday was about confirming a strong week. For others, it was a chance to respond after earlier struggles. The trenches once again dictated the tone as NFL decision-makers watched closely.

Winners

Caleb Banks, iDL, Florida

Banks answered the biggest question surrounding his week with his best performance. After a rough start, the Florida defensive tackle showed improved quickness and finishing ability on Day 3. He won multiple one-on-one reps as a pass-rusher, picked up a sack during team drills, and held his ground against the run. Banks reminded scouts why his size and upside remain intriguing at the next level.

Romello Height, edge, Texas Tech

Height looked far more comfortable in the final practice. He consistently won around the edge using speed and bend, creating pressure without overextending. While concerns about his run defense remain, Thursday highlighted why his pass-rush skill set keeps him firmly on draft boards.

Gracen Halton, iDL, Oklahoma

Halton’s athleticism showed up late in the week. His quick first step led to several interior wins, and he was disruptive enough to force guards into recovery mode. Day 3 helped solidify him as a potential interior penetrator at the NFL level.

Rayshaun Benny, iDL, Michigan

Benny finished strong after a quieter start to the week. He recorded multiple wins during one-on-ones and played with better pad level in team drills. His ability to affect both the run and pass on Thursday helped his overall Senior Bowl evaluation.

Bud Clark, S, TCU

Clark capped off a strong week with another interception in 11-on-11. His instincts and ball skills consistently stood out, and he showed comfort playing in space. Clark looks like a safety who understands leverage and timing traits NFL coaches value.

Losers

Kage Casey, OT, Boise State

Casey struggled in pass protection on Thursday, particularly against speed rushers. He had difficulty resetting once beaten and was on the wrong end of several reps during one-on-ones. A tough final impression in a week dominated by defensive linemen.

Max Iheanachor, OT, Arizona State

After impressive showings earlier in the week, Iheanachor came back to earth on Day 3. He took several losses in pass protection and was less effective in the run game during team drills. Still a solid week overall, but Thursday exposed areas for refinement.

Jack Kelly, LB, BYU

Kelly had a difficult practice, particularly in coverage. He struggled during one-on-ones and failed to consistently impact the run during team periods. His performance raised concerns about his ability to hold up in space against NFL athletes.

Zakee Wheatley, S — Penn State

Wheatley never appeared comfortable throughout the week, and Day 3 continued that trend. He was beaten in coverage multiple times and failed to make a notable impact in team drills. A disappointing showing for a player who entered Mobile with higher expectations.

Final takeaway

Day 3 at the Senior Bowl was about momentum swings. Banks made the most of his final opportunity to change the conversation, while others left Mobile needing strong game-day performances to erase lingering questions. With practices complete, Saturday’s showcase will serve as the final separator before draft boards truly begin to shift.