2026 East-West Shrine Bowl: Key Winners and Losers Revealed

The 2026 East-West Shrine Bowl has concluded its practice sessions, culminating in a final game that showcased emerging football talent. Held at the Ford Center in Frisco, Texas, this year’s event featured numerous players vying for attention from professional scouts ahead of the NFL Draft.

Key Winners and Losers from the 2026 East-West Shrine Bowl

Winners

• Eli Heidenreich (Naval Academy): This running back demonstrated exceptional skills both in rushing and as a pass-catcher, proving his talent despite some offensive line challenges.
• Landon Robinson (Naval Academy): As the 2025 AAC Defensive Player of the Year, Robinson showed impressive athleticism and skill in both run defense and pass rushing.
• Mark Gronowski (Iowa): The all-time winningest quarterback in NCAA history showcased strong passing abilities, solidifying his position as a top quarterback prospect.
• Michael Wortham (Montana): A late addition, the wide receiver made significant impacts during practices despite minor drop issues, showing potential for improvement in the game.
• Kaden Wetjen (Iowa): Wetjen stood out as the best receiver, consistently showcasing his ability to get open and make contested catches.
• Jalon Daniels (Kansas): Daniels impressed coaches and teammates alike with his performances throughout the practices and made valuable connections with NFL teams.
• Jaden Dugger (Louisiana): Dugger’s physicality and impressive play earned him attention, highlighted by interceptions during team sessions.
• Anthony Smith (East Carolina): Smith quickly grabbed attention as a top receiver with impressive footwork and catching ability, showcasing his talent and potential.
• Caden Barnett (Wyoming): Barnett stood out on the offensive line, demonstrating strength in one-on-one matchups and stability during practices.
• Wesley Williams (Duke): Williams’ speed and array of pass-rush moves proved effective throughout the week, positioning him as a potential Day 2 pick.

Losers

• Domani Jackson (Alabama): The cornerback struggled throughout practices, raising concerns about his draft stock as he failed to demonstrate solid coverage skills.
• DeMonte Capehart (Clemson): Despite his size, Capehart struggled significantly, failing to make impactful plays in run defense or as a pass rusher.
• Patrick Payton (LSU): Payton could not rise to expectations, showing average performance throughout the week and failing to improve doubts about his play.
• Cade Klubnik (Clemson): The quarterback’s practice performances were disappointing and likely hindered his appeal to NFL teams.
• Dontay Corleone (Cincinnati): After an initial strong showing, an injury raised concerns about his long-term draft viability.
• Christian Jones (San Diego State): Jones’ late addition to the team was marred by poor performance, highlighted by multiple penalties and missed blocks.
• Haynes King (Georgia Tech): King struggled with accuracy, detracting from his reputation as a leading quarterback prospect.
• Dean Connors (Houston): Connors failed to make a significant impact, leaving doubts about his viability as a sleeper prospect.

This year’s East-West Shrine Bowl showcased a mix of rising stars and players who did not meet expectations. The final game will offer participants one last chance to impress before the upcoming NFL Draft.