It's that time of the year again - college football bowl season is in full swing. However, not all players are eager to participate. In recent years, we've witnessed several prominent players deciding to sit out their teams' bowl games in order to prepare for the NFL Draft. The 2024-25 bowl season follows a similar trend, with the 12-team College Football Playoff field adding an extra layer of significance to some of the bowls.

Transfer Portal: Tracking the Big Names

Luther Burden III, Missouri WR

Luther Burden III, a wide receiver from Missouri, has made the decision to sit out his team's bowl game. This move is likely a strategic one, as he focuses on maximizing his potential in the NFL Draft. By avoiding potential injuries in a relatively meaningless game, he can ensure that he is in the best shape possible to showcase his skills to NFL scouts. From a team perspective, it may be a disappointment to lose a key player, but it also shows the growing importance of the NFL Draft for these young athletes.There are several factors that could influence a player like Burden III to make this decision. The financial aspect is undoubtedly a major consideration. Playing in a bowl game comes with a risk of injury, and if an injury were to occur, it could potentially derail a player's NFL dreams. Additionally, the exposure and recognition gained from the NFL Draft can be a significant draw for these players. By sitting out the bowl game and focusing on their draft preparations, they have a better chance of making a strong impression on NFL teams.

Kaleb Johnson, Iowa RB

Kaleb Johnson, the running back from Iowa, is another player who has chosen to sit out his team's bowl game. Like Burden III, Johnson is likely looking to protect himself and enhance his draft prospects. Running backs often face a higher risk of injury due to the physical nature of the position, and by skipping the bowl game, he can minimize that risk.For Iowa, losing Johnson in the bowl game is a setback, but the team understands his decision. The focus now shifts to the future, and the coaching staff will need to find ways to compensate for his absence. This situation also highlights the importance of developing depth within a team. If a key player like Johnson were to get injured during the regular season, having a capable backup would be crucial.In conclusion, the decision of players like Luther Burden III and Kaleb Johnson to sit out their bowl games is a common occurrence in college football. While it may be disappointing for fans and teams, it is a strategic move that these players believe will benefit their NFL careers. As we continue to follow the transfer portal and the 2025 NFL Draft, it will be interesting to see how many more players make similar decisions and what impact it will have on the college football landscape.