Illinois' Gabe Jacas impressed at the 2026 Senior Bowl with a strip sack and strong pass-rushing.

At the 2026 Senior Bowl’s first day, Illinois’ Gabe Jacas stood out with explosive pass-rushing and a strip sack, while Texas Tech’s Lee Hunter dominated run defense. Western Michigan’s Nadame Tucker impressed despite his size, and Georgia Tech’s Keylan Rutledge delivered a flawless blocking performance. Other notable performers included Penn State’s Dani Dennis-Sutton, Michigan’s Derrick Moore, and Washington’s Carver Willis. Several prospects showed promise, signaling potential draft stock boosts ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft.