2023 NFL Draft: NFLPA Bowl Weigh-In Observations

NFL Draft Bible founder Ric Serritella checks in from Pasadena with observations from the 11th Annual NFLPA Collegiate Bowl!

Ric Serritella | Jan 24, 2023

2023 NFL Draft: NFLPA Bowl Weigh-In Observations /

The 11th Annual NFLPA Collegiate Bowl kicks off this Saturday, January 28, at 6:00 pm eastern time on NFL Network. Here’s an early look at some players who garnered attention during live weigh-ins.

The NFLPA Bowl is the only major all-star that still conducts in-person weigh-ins where NFL scouts are allowed to observe players. Here are some things we saw:

TEAM AMERICAN

Weigh-In Winner – Offense:

This will be somewhat of a coming-out party for the big-bodied pass-catcher who is full of upside potential. These are solid numbers for Averett, a red-zone mismatch who began his career at Louisville.

Weigh-In Winner – Defense:

A late bloomer, Deslin has seen his weight fluctuate during his time at Pitt between 235 pounds – 285 pounds. The rocked-up pass-rusher can also set the edge against the run.

Biggest Player:

The mammoth Swoboda presents an imposing figure and he showed why during weigh-ins, measuring in at an astounding 6-foot-9! The tallest player in attendance brings P5 pedigree as a transfer from Virginia.

Smallest Player:

A five-year starter, White brings incredible instincts and ball-hawk skills, along with smooth feet. He plays much bigger than his size indicates and is also a weapon in the return game.

TEAM NATIONAL

Weigh-In Winner – Offense:

One of the best-kept secrets in the 2023 Draft, Wright possesses a sturdy, durable frame and is a four-down player. This is a name you need to know, as he should be expected to rise throughout the process.

Weigh-In Winner – Defense:

Hitting that 6-foot height mark was a nice way to get his week started. A pure tackle machine, Merriweather had three interceptions and two touchdowns this past season for the Red Raiders.

Biggest Player:

DT Calvin Avery, Illinois | Height: 6015 | Weight: 343 | Hand: 1000 | Arm: 3234 Wingspan: 8078

The heaviest player in attendance this week would be Avery, a run-stuffing space eater who can man the nose tackle position. Opposing offensive linemen expect to have their hands full during one-on-ones!

Smallest Player:

Don’t let the size fool you, Jones Jr. is physical, fast, instinctual and smart. The scrappy Mountaineers defender owns the savvy ability to bait quarterbacks, in addition to being a special teams dynamo.

*For over two decades, NFL Draft Bible creator Ric Serritella has been bringing you the names you need to know! Follow him @ricserritella for more scouting insight and analysis!

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Published Jan 24, 2023

RIC SERRITELLA

A known media maven, who created the NFL Draft Bible, which used by all 32 NFL teams. Also responsible for developing and installing the fiber-optic network for MLB Network. Served as executive producer for the T.Ocho Show on NBC Sports. Helped launch the YES Network, working on the first show (Mike & The Mad Dogg) and created the Wall Street Journal YouTube Channel. Owns Bachelor’s degree in Sports Entertainment & Event Management from Johnson & Wales University.