2024 NFL Draft: Player comps for top Senior Bowl prospects

A few weeks ago, I wrote about five members of the Reese’s Senior Bowl watch list and their perfect first-round fits. I expect about 10 players from the watch list to be picked in the first round based on recent history, however, and we're approaching the time of the college football season where other prospects are throwing their names into the hat as potential Day 1 selections.

Below, I compare seven Senior Bowl prospects who could hear their names called during Round 1 with past first-rounders. While player comparisons can be tricky, it's natural for NFL general managers and coaches to make connections with previous top prospects while evaluating the current group. Players are ranked in ascending order based on my view of their stock.

The 2024 Senior Bowl will be held at Hancock Whitney Stadium in Mobile, Alabama, on Feb. 3, 2024 and broadcast live on NFL Network (1 p.m. ET).

NOTE: Heights and weights are via school measurements.

Comp: Marlon Humphrey

Iowa State could have a first-round pick for the second straight year after going without one for 50 years (George Amundson in 1973; Will McDonald IV in 2023). Tampa possesses the NFL-caliber frame that intrigued the Ravens when they picked Humphrey 16th overall in 2017. He shares the three-time Pro Bowler's affinity for a physical brand of football, as well, separating the ball from receivers and squaring them up in the open field. Tampa's excellent straight-line speed for his size is evident when tracking down ball-carriers across the field and keeping up with receivers in coverage.

Comp: Brian Burns

Umanmielen isn't yet a household name, but he has a career-high 5.5 sacks through 10 games. His tall, lean build reminds me of Burns, as do his long strides in the open field