Mobile Notebook: Taaffe's 'Missile' Start, Burks Sidelined
The pads are popping in Mobile, Alabama, and the “stock watch” board for Red River prospects is lighting up with contrasting signals.
In our preview, we highlighted this week as a “Prove-It” opportunity. Two days into practice, one prospect is proving it, while the other is nowhere to be found.
Michael Taaffe: The Verified Asset (Stock Up)
Texas safety Michael Taaffe arrived in Mobile with a “cerebral” label—code for “smart but unathletic.” He is shattering that ceiling.
Scouts and media have dubbed him a “missile” in 11-on-11 drills. What stands out isn’t just his pre-snap alignment (which is flawless, as expected), but his closing speed. In Day 2 practices, Taaffe consistently erased angles against speedy slot receivers, showing that his functional athleticism matches his high football IQ.
The Takeaway: Taaffe is moving from a “Day 3 sleeper” to a legitimate mid-round target who can quarterback an NFL secondary on Day 1.
Deion Burks: The Unknown Variable (Stock Incomplete)
Conversely, Oklahoma WR Deion Burks is officially OUT for the Senior Bowl.
While the specific medical reasons remain private, his absence is significant. Burks needed this week to prove his route tree extends beyond “go fast.” By missing the 1-on-1s, he leaves scouts with only his college tape, which, while explosive, shows a limited role.
The Takeaway: Burks is betting on the Combine. He will need to run a blazing 40-yard dash in Indianapolis to offset the missed opportunity to showcase technical refinement here in Mobile.
Other Notes
- Gracen Halton (OU) showed excellent burst in interior line drills, winning several reps with a quick swim move.
- Malik Muhammad (Texas) displayed his trademark physicality in press-man coverage, confirming he belongs in the conversation with the top corners in the class.
