The East-West Shrine Game gives NFL prospects a chance to make a name for themselves with scouts with their play in the game, and in the practices leading up to it. Both big-named stars and small-school, little-known players alike get a chance to show off their skills with the hope of impressing enough to earn a job on Sundays next season. Some come in with buzz already surrounding them, but there are always several underrated prospects to be found on the rosters. Here are five guys playing in this year’s Shrine Game who aren’t household names yet, but could be soon enough.
Keith Wenning, Quarterback, Ball State
Wenning can be found pretty far down on most draft charts, but the Senior passer might deserve more looks. On the surface, he looks the part at 6’3” and 220 lbs. Add in a big arm and his experience in a pro-style offense and he’s got a lot going for him. He has also been one of the stars of Shrine Game practices this week. He’s shown off his arm and has also displayed great accuracy and anticipation. With NFL teams coveting arm strength and leadership, Wenning could find himself moving up some of those draft boards this Spring.
Jeremy Gallon, Wide Receiver, Michigan
The 2014 class of receivers is massive, talented, and deep. The loaded group will push some talented players down into the lower rounds and maybe out of the draft altogether. Gallon is from a big school, and so he’s had plenty of eyes on his game, but his size and limitations hurt him with scouts. At 5’7, he figures to contribute primarily in the slot at the next level, but faces questions about his speed and effort. He certainly has some things he can work on to improve his game, but he has plenty of raw talent to work with and could be a better pro than many of the receivers picked ahead of him.
Shaquil Barrett, Linebacker, Colorado State
Barrett is a player that some people may not know, but they should. The 6’2”, 250 lb linebacker made a ton of plays in the 2013 season. Parts of his game are still raw as far as translating to the NFL, but he has enough talent that he could be a late-round steal. He likely fits best as a pass-rushing linebacker in a 3-4 system, and might not be an every down player, but he is a player who will make an impact. He’s a talented guy who deserves more press, and is catching some attention this week with a nice showing in practice.
Andre Hal, Cornerback, Vanderbilt
It seems like it should be hard to be under the radar while playing in the SEC, but Vanderbilt doesn’t get the same attention as Alabama, and Hal has slipped in without a lot of fanfare. However, with his showing in Shrine Game practices, he is forcing people to take notice. He brings good size and a nose for the football, though his hands are inconsistent. Vanderbilt recently sent Casey Hayward to the NFL, and Hal could be the next Commodore cornerback to make a name for himself on Sundays. He may not have played at a top football school, but he’s talented enough to have done so.
Sean Parker, Safety, Washington
The internet draft community has been buzzing about Parker, but it remains to be seen whether or not NFL scouts have followed suit. A big hitter, he is solid in run support and at tackling in the open field. His size isn’t ideal at 5’10 and 190 lbs, but he’s athletic and smart, and just makes plays. At the next level, he should be a solid in-the-box safety because of his ability in run support. He’s not bad in coverage, but height is an issue. Parker is a great talent and if NFL scouts weren’t paying attention already, they will be soon.