Bud Clark Raised NFL Draft Stock At Senior Bowl

The 2026 Panini Senior Bowl held its final practice sessions on Thursday after three straight days of scrimmages. The most consistent standout performer on Wednesday and Thursday was arguably TCU safety Bud Clark. Clark routinely made impact plays.

The competitive environment in Mobile is often skewed toward the more aggressive players. Wide receivers and pass rushers possess a natural advantage during one-on-ones. That made it far more impressive that Clark managed to win a majority of reps both in isolated and team drills.

Clark came down with an interception at Wednesday’s practice during a one-on-one rep with NC State tight end Justin Joly. In team periods, he crept downhill and played the nickel spot effectively. Thursday's practice session saw him repeat those efforts with similar results.

Playing in a more traditional safety role, Clark made an incredible interception in the team period. The deep ball was intended for Wisconsin wide receiver Vinny Anthony II. Clark showed terrific range and instincts to make a leaping interception near the sideline.

This back-and-forth between Clark and LSU wide receiver Chris Hilton was fun-natured. A physical one-on-one rep ended with another Clark pass breakup prior to a friendly embrace. Hilton was one of the better stories in Mobile, receiving a late invite after participating in three previous All-Star events.

Clark was a highly productive player at TCU. The Alexandria, Louisiana native recorded 35 pass breakups and 15 interceptions in six seasons with the Horned Frogs. Ball skills and instincts were evident on tape before Clark doubled down on those natural abilities at the Senior Bowl.

Nothing is settled in this safety class beyond Caleb Downs being the No. 1-ranked prospect at the position. Emmanuel McNeil-Warren and Dillon Thieneman have been the consensus follow-ups. After a stellar week in Mobile, Clark has forced himself into the top-five conversation at safety.

Some NFL scouts may ding Clark for his age, but whoever drafts him is getting an immediate impact player. Clark is a versatile defender capable of playing the nickel or in two-high coverage shells. A secure wrap-up tackler, his most effective spot may be playing the slot, where he can creep downhill and stick his nose in the run game.

The Senior Bowl promotes competition and allows prospects an opportunity to increase their pre-draft stock. Clark will be a buzzworthy name on scouts' tongues as they depart Mobile and head back to their NFL headquarters. The competitive spirit displayed by Clark embodies everything great about the Senior Bowl.

Clark is a high-energy defensive back with an infectious personality. His competitive approach is perfectly suited to generate success in Mobile. Clark took full advantage of his opportunity at this year's Senior Bowl, undoubtedly improving his pre-draft stock.