What's Happening?
Phillip Dunnam, a defensive back for the UCF Knights, has accepted an invitation to participate in the 2026 Hula Bowl. The Hula Bowl, traditionally held in Hawaii, will take place at Spec Martin Stadium
in DeLand, Florida, due to renovations at its usual venue. Dunnam, who declared for the 2026 NFL Draft earlier this month, will use the all-star game to showcase his skills to professional scouts. This season, Dunnam recorded 60 tackles and three interceptions, earning All-Big 12 Honorable Mention. The Hula Bowl will feature a coaching matchup between brothers Jay and Jon Gruden.
Why It's Important?
Dunnam's participation in the Hula Bowl is a strategic move to enhance his visibility and draft prospects. All-star games like the Hula Bowl provide players with a platform to demonstrate their abilities against top-tier competition, potentially boosting their draft stock. For UCF, Dunnam's involvement highlights the program's ability to develop talent capable of competing at the professional level. The event also underscores the importance of college all-star games in the NFL Draft process, offering players additional opportunities to impress scouts and teams.
What's Next?
Following the Hula Bowl, Dunnam will continue preparing for the NFL Draft, focusing on improving his performance in pre-draft evaluations such as the NFL Scouting Combine. His performance in these events will be crucial in determining his draft position. Meanwhile, UCF will look to fill the gap left by Dunnam's departure, potentially recruiting new talent or promoting existing players. The outcome of the draft will influence Dunnam's professional career, determining which team he will join and the role he will play in the NFL.
