Sure, I can help with that! Here’s a detailed breakdown of three LSU Tigers who are attempting to boost their NFL Draft stock at the East-West Shrine Bowl, including analysis of their college careers, playing styles, and potential draft implications.
At the East-West Shrine Bowl, Three LSU Tigers Aim to Boost Their Draft Stock
The East-West Shrine Bowl is one of the premier all-star games for NFL prospects, offering college players a chance to showcase their skills in front of NFL scouts, coaches, and general managers. This year, several talented prospects from across the nation are participating, with three standout LSU Tigers taking center stage to improve their draft stock. These players have the opportunity to elevate their visibility and demonstrate their abilities against other top prospects, all while making a lasting impression on professional teams.
For LSU, a program with a storied football tradition, the East-West Shrine Bowl serves as a crucial springboard for their players as they transition to the next level. Although LSU has been known for producing elite talent, particularly in recent years, it’s not always about high-profile players like Joe Burrow or Ja’Marr Chase. There are many prospects who need the right stage to demonstrate their potential and show NFL scouts that they are ready to compete at the highest level.
This year, three Tigers are particularly eager to show what they can do: defensive back Jay Ward, linebacker Micah Baskerville, and offensive lineman Anthony Bradford. Each of these players has shown flashes of brilliance during their time at LSU but has something to prove as they look to secure their place in the NFL.
1. Jay Ward – Defensive Back
Position: Safety/Cornerback
Height: 6’0″
Weight: 185 lbs
Overview: Jay Ward is one of LSU’s most versatile defensive players, having showcased the ability to play both safety and cornerback during his collegiate career. With his combination of speed, agility, and awareness, Ward has the potential to play multiple roles in the NFL secondary, which is something that NFL scouts highly covet. His athleticism and flexibility will be his most significant assets during his time at the East-West Shrine Bowl.
During his time at LSU, Ward was a key component of a defense that routinely ranked among the best in the SEC. He played in 48 games for the Tigers and made over 150 tackles, with several key interceptions that showcased his ability to read the quarterback’s eyes and make plays on the ball. Ward has good length, which allows him to match up well against larger wide receivers, and he is physical enough to contribute in the run game when necessary. While Ward has experience at cornerback, his most significant impact came as a safety, where his ball-hawking skills and football IQ allowed him to make crucial plays for LSU’s defense.
What to Expect at the East-West Shrine Bowl: Ward will have the opportunity to further demonstrate his versatility in the East-West Shrine Bowl. Scouts will be looking for him to showcase his ability to cover both wide receivers and tight ends, as well as how well he communicates in the defensive backfield. His awareness in zone coverage, ability to read opposing offenses, and natural ability to track the ball in the air will all be under the microscope.
While Ward is already known for his athleticism and physicality, his performance at the Shrine Bowl will give him the chance to fine-tune his skills and show that he can transition seamlessly to the NFL. If Ward can make a strong impression at the Shrine Bowl, particularly with his ability to play different roles in the secondary, he could solidify his draft stock and be selected in the mid-to-late rounds of the draft.
NFL Draft Implications: Ward’s versatility is likely to be one of his biggest selling points. A safety who can also contribute as a cornerback is a rare and valuable commodity in the NFL, particularly in today’s pass-heavy league. While Ward may not have the high-profile reputation of other cornerbacks or safeties in this draft class, his performance at the Shrine Bowl could allow him to prove that he is a versatile defensive back who can contribute right away. A strong showing at the Shrine Bowl could push Ward into Day 2 of the NFL Draft, with teams looking to add depth and flexibility to their secondary.
2. Micah Baskerville – Linebacker
Position: Linebacker
Height: 6’1″
Weight: 225 lbs
Overview: Micah Baskerville is an athletic, sideline-to-sideline linebacker who has been a consistent presence on LSU’s defense. Throughout his career, Baskerville has been known for his intelligence, leadership, and ability to make plays all over the field. Despite not having the same level of athletic pedigree as some other linebackers in this draft class, Baskerville’s strong instincts and work ethic make him a player worth keeping an eye on.
Baskerville played in 49 games for LSU, recording over 250 tackles, including several tackles for loss and sacks. He was a key leader for the Tigers’ defense, serving as a captain in his senior season. Baskerville’s ability to diagnose plays quickly and his willingness to attack the line of scrimmage are what set him apart. He’s also shown good coverage skills, making him a versatile asset for NFL teams that want linebackers who can handle multiple responsibilities.
What to Expect at the East-West Shrine Bowl: At the Shrine Bowl, Baskerville will have the opportunity to showcase his leadership, work ethic, and mental acumen in front of NFL scouts. Teams will be looking for him to demonstrate his ability to diagnose plays quickly, shed blockers, and make tackles in space. Although Baskerville may not possess the blazing speed of some other linebackers, his football IQ and knack for being in the right place at the right time could be enough to make him an appealing prospect.
The Shrine Bowl also provides an excellent stage for Baskerville to show his coverage skills. His ability to defend running backs, tight ends, and even some wide receivers in the passing game will be crucial in determining his value at the next level. With teams increasingly seeking linebackers who can handle both run defense and pass coverage, Baskerville’s ability to be a versatile and dependable player will be critical.
NFL Draft Implications: While Micah Baskerville is unlikely to be a first-round pick, he is a player who could make his way into the middle rounds of the draft. His leadership qualities, ability to read the game, and versatility as both a run defender and pass coverage specialist could make him a valuable asset to a team in need of linebacker depth. His performance at the East-West Shrine Bowl will be crucial in showing that he can make the leap to the NFL and contribute on special teams and in defensive packages right away.
3. Anthony Bradford – Offensive Lineman
Position: Offensive Guard
Height: 6’5″
Weight: 340 lbs
Overview: Anthony Bradford is an imposing figure on the offensive line. Standing at 6’5″ and weighing in at 340 pounds, Bradford brings a mix of power, size, and athleticism that will catch the eye of NFL scouts. Throughout his time at LSU, Bradford has played both guard positions and has proven himself to be a reliable and tough player in the trenches. His strength and ability to move defenders off the ball make him a valuable asset as a run blocker, while his ability to handle speed rushers in pass protection makes him an appealing prospect for NFL teams in need of offensive line help.
Bradford has been a mainstay for LSU’s offensive line, starting in multiple games over his career. He’s earned praise for his physicality and his ability to play with a high level of intensity. While his technique has occasionally been a point of concern, Bradford’s size, strength, and willingness to work hard on improving his fundamentals have made him a player to watch for the upcoming NFL Draft.
What to Expect at the East-West Shrine Bowl: At the East-West Shrine Bowl, Bradford will have the chance to show off his technique against some of the top defensive line prospects. Scouts will be closely watching his ability to protect the quarterback and create running lanes. Bradford’s natural strength is already a given, but his ability to demonstrate improved hand placement, footwork, and awareness in pass protection will be crucial in showing that he’s ready for the next level.
Bradford’s physical traits and experience playing in the SEC make him a highly intriguing prospect for NFL teams, especially those looking for interior offensive line help. The Shrine Bowl provides a stage for Bradford to show that he has the technique to match his physical attributes, making him an even more valuable commodity come draft time.
NFL Draft Implications: Anthony Bradford’s size and strength make him an appealing option for NFL teams in need of a powerful, run-blocking guard. While he may not have the elite athleticism of some other offensive line prospects, his ability to move defenders off the ball and play with an aggressive edge could make him a strong fit for a power-running team. Bradford’s performance at the Shrine Bowl will be crucial in solidifying his draft stock. A strong showing in pass protection, particularly against top-tier defensive linemen, could propel him into the mid-rounds of the draft.
