Kentucky football: When is the Senior Bowl? Schedule & timeline of events

The countdown is on for the 2025 Reese's Senior Bowl, kicking off Saturday, February 1, at 2:30 PM. This annual showcase of top NFL prospects will feature two standout representatives from Kentucky football: defensive lineman Deone Walker and cornerback Maxwell Hairston. Both players are generating significant buzz among NFL scouts as they prepare to take their talents to Hancock Whitney Stadium in Mobile, Alabama. The Senior Bowl has been played here since 1951.

Deone Walker: A Mountain in the Trenches

Scout Report Highlights
Deone Walker, listed at 6’6” and 348 pounds, possesses a rare combination of size and mobility, giving him immense potential at the professional level.

Strengths:

• Run Defense: Walker’s upper-body strength allows him to shed blocks and control gaps effectively. His agility helps him tackle in adjacent lanes, making him a two-gap force.
• Pass Rush: While not elite, Walker's bull-rushing ability collapses pockets, and he keeps his feet active through contact.

Weaknesses:

• Consistency: Conditioning is a concern, as Walker’s energy wanes at times, leading to lapses in effort.
• Technique: His high pad level makes him susceptible to offensive linemen with strong leverage.
• Explosiveness: Lacks burst off the snap, limiting his effectiveness in some scenarios.

NFL Outlook: According to Bleacher Report Walker is projected as a third-round pick with a 7.4 grade, meaning he has the potential to be a high-level backup or starter. His pro comparison is Gervon Dexter.

Maxwell Hairston: A Cornerback with a Nose for the Ball

Scout Report Highlights
Maxwell Hairston is turning heads with his physical tools and playmaking ability. At 6’0” and 190 pounds, he offers a blend of size, vision, and aggressiveness that appeals to NFL teams.

Strengths:

• Press Coverage: Hairston thrives in physical matchups, using his long arms to jam receivers and maintain tight coverage.
• Zone Awareness: His instincts and vision in zone coverage make him a threat to quarterbacks, as he can track their eyes and anticipate plays.
• Playmaker: Opportunistic on tipped balls and overthrows, Hairston has a knack for creating turnovers.

Weaknesses:

• Speed: While solid, he’s not a burner and can be stretched vertically against fast receivers.
• Discipline: Eyes in the backfield can pull him out of position, leading to missed assignments.
• Footwork: Inconsistent technique causes wasted motion and affects his recovery time.

NFL Outlook: Hairston holds a 7.6 grade and is projected as a second-round pick. Compared to Rasul Douglas, Hairston has the tools to become a reliable, impact cornerback at the next level.

What This Means for Kentucky Football

Walker and Hairston’s inclusion in the Senior Bowl is a testament to the hard work these two young men put in during their careers. Representing the Wildcats on one of the biggest pre-draft stages, they’ll not only showcase their individual talent but also highlight the program’s ability to develop NFL-ready players.

The Road Ahead

The Reese’s Senior Bowl is more than an all-star game—it’s a proving ground. NFL scouts, coaches, and general managers will scrutinize every snap, drill, and interaction. For Walker and Hairston, it’s an opportunity to solidify their draft stock and address areas of concern before the NFL Combine.

With Kentucky fans watching closely, the duo has a chance to leave a lasting impression, both for themselves and for Big Blue Nation.

Mark your calendars for February 1 and get ready to cheer on Kentucky’s finest as they take center stage in Mobile!