Each year, the Senior Bowl is a prime national spotlight for up-and-coming NFL prospects to showcase their skill and bolster their draft stock.
The ‘Reese’s Senior Bowl’ is designed to feature high-pedigree NFL prospects who have exhausted their college eligibility.
NFL Football Operations speaks to the significant opportunity provided by the Senior Bowl.
“General managers, head coaches, assistant coaches, personnel directors, scouts and other front office personnel from all 32 NFL teams attend the event…There are approximately 500 Senior Bowl alumni on current NFL rosters. In the 75-year history of the game, the Senior Bowl has featured 53 Pro Football Hall of Fame members.”
North Carolina’s Willie Lampkin was fortunate enough to be invited to the 2025 Senior Bowl. Clearly, an invitation to such a renowned, historic event is a big honor, speaking volumes to the hard work Lampkin has put into his game.
With his Senior Bowl invitation, Lampkin’s career accolades continue to grow. This season, Lampkin was also named First-Team All-ACC, joining his teammate Omarion Hampton. Last season, Lampkin made Third-Team All-ACC.
Not only is the Senior Bowl prestigious, but it’s also an incredibly exclusive event. SeniorBowl.com speaks on their in-depth selection process of the 100-plus prospects.
“The Reese’s Senior Bowl utilizes an extensive eight-month process in selecting the players that will be invited to the annual showcase of college all-stars.”
Pro Football Focus (PFF) outlined some key standout players from Day 2 of the Senior Bowl on Wednesday, and Lampkin was one of them.
“North Carolina's Will Lampkin is making a name for himself: Despite his unconventional frame, Lampkin was the highest-graded interior offensive lineman in the Power Four conferences last season, earning an 84.8 overall blocking grade. That strong play has carried over to the Senior Bowl, where his leverage, quick footwork, and excellent hand placement have stood out more than his size limitations.”
Lampkin stands at a stout 5-foot-10, 270-pounds. PFF notes that Lampkin would be three inches shorter than the smallest current NFL offensive lineman and the second-lightest in the past 25 years.
However, Lampkin continues to shine, dismissing any narratives surrounding his size limitations. What Lampkin may lack in size and stature, he makes up for tenfold in technique, grit and determination. While PFF said Lampkin’s height may limit him to playing center, they praised his skillful play and athleticism, mentioning that he could even see some run at fullback in the NFL.
Lampkin has taken full advantage of the 2025 Senior Bowl stage and upped his draft stock significantly. It’s no longer a matter of ‘if’ Lampkin will be drafted but ‘when.’