Hula Bowl Players Commanding Respect in the NFL

I was fortunate to attend Washington Commanders training camp Friday, August 5th, being able to catch up with some of the players who participated in this past season’s Hula Bowl.

Fans gathered in the hot summer sun in Ashburn, Virginia with the reactions of Ryan Kerrigan’s retirement still lingering. In fact, you were able to see Kerrigan mingle with the players and coaches, as well as sign a few autographs. With Kerrigan hanging up his cleats as Washington’s all-time sack leader, fans are turning to Chase Young to hopefully lead the team’s pass rush. Young has yet to see the field this training camp because he is still in rehab. Yet, everyone still witnessed him exhibit boisterous enthusiasm today while encouraging his teammates from the sideline. On the field, I was happy to see some of our former Hula Bowl players in action.

CB Christian Holmes was a 7th round draft pick for Washington out of Oklahoma State. Holmes was one of eight players from this past Hula Bowl who was drafted. Many believed that he was the best DB at the event, if not the best prospect, matching up well against every receiver and showing the ability to run stride for stride with anyone. It is the aggressive playstyle of Holmes that sets him apart. Washington coaches sought after big physical corners as of late, bringing in Will Jackson and Benjamin St-Juste last season. In fact, one scout who I spoke with compared the style of Holmes to that of Jackson’s. Holmes has been one of the best rookie standouts in training camp so far, showcasing his playmaking ability, having the most PBUs among rookies. Holmes has proven to be a passionate and competitive player, making his case for the #4 CB position.

Bryce Notree is a big LB out of Southern Illinois. He might be working with the 3rd team, but there’s a lot to like about Notree. Many scouts complimented his positive attitude and character. He’s a good locker room guy who’s very energetic and fun. On the field, he displayed good position flexibility. Not only did Notree play MLB, but he was also used on the edge in certain packages. Coaches preach versatility and availability, and Notree is ready to play wherever he is needed. He took reps on special teams as well, which he admittedly said he hasn’t done in a while. Yet, he is comfortable adapting to the NFL, learning the terminology of the playbook. It is likely that Notree will receive many opportunities with Washington due to other players’ unfortunate circumstances. Former Notre Dame LB Drew White, who was another participant in the Hula Bowl, went down with an ACL injury, and it was announced today that undrafted rookie LB Tre Walker from Idaho is retiring.

Cole Kelley is the rookie QB from Southeastern Louisiana that you can’t miss. You literally can’t because he towers over everyone at 6’7”. A lot of what Kelley brings to the table is obvious. He has elite size which gives him good vision to see over linemen. He also has a strong arm and came to Washington as a very prolific college passer. Kelley received the Walter Payton Award for the 2020-2021 Spring Season and was also a finalist last season, passing for over 5000 yards. Earning the Walter Payton Award which is the FCS equivalent to the Heisman Trophy, put Kelley on every team’s radar. Washington coaches have raved about his eagerness in meetings, asking a lot of questions and adjusting well to the NFL. I talked to Kelley about his relationships in the QB room, and he noted great chemistry. Everyone is eager to compete, and all bring different abilities to the table. Kelley has already learned a lot about being an NFL QB and continues to grow into the player who he wants to be.