The 2027 Panini Senior Bowl, the premier all‑star exhibition that precedes the NFL Draft, is set to take place in Mobile, Alabama, on January 30, 2027. The game draws more than 900 NFL executives and over 1,100 media members, making it a focal point for scouting the next generation of talent.
Among the highlighted names is Justice Haynes, a Georgia Tech running back who earned the nod after a breakout junior season at Michigan. There he amassed 857 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns, averaging 7.1 yards per carry and 122.4 yards per game, figures that placed him atop the Big Ten and kept him in the conversation for the final NCAA rankings.
Also earning a spot is linebacker E.J. Lightsey, who transferred to Georgia Tech after a standout first season that saw him record 76 tackles and finish second in the conference in his position. His consistent production over multiple years has drawn praise from analysts who see him as a potential three‑down player at the next level.
The Senior Bowl’s National Stage
Both players will be part of a Georgia Tech squad that opens its 2026 campaign on September 3 against Colorado at Bobby Dodd Stadium, also known as Hyundai Field in Atlanta. The Yellow Jackets’ early schedule sets the stage for a season that could further cement their prospects ahead of the Senior Bowl.
The event will be televised nationally on NFL Network, ensuring that the performances of Haynes, Lightsey and their peers receive maximum exposure as the draft conversation heats up.
What the Rankings Mean for the Draft
Being listed in the Top 300 does more than add a line to a résumé; it places these athletes directly in the crosshairs of teams looking to fill critical roster gaps. For Haynes, the combination of size, speed and production could make him an attractive third‑down back, while Lightsey’s tackling instincts might appeal to defenses seeking a versatile linebacker.
The buzz surrounding the two Yellow Jackets reflects a broader trend of mid‑major programs producing NFL‑ready talent, and the upcoming Senior Bowl will be a litmus test for their draft stock.