The East-West Shrine Bowl creates an annual opportunity for college football players to showcase their skills in front of NFL scouts. This year, the 100th playing of the game was no different. Among the talent showcased in this year’s game was Ole Miss Rebels defensive tackle JJ Pegues, who made a strong impression.
JJ Pegues Stands Out at 100th Shrine Bowl
The event, which was broadcast on the NFL Network, highlighted Pegues’ defensive performance, earning him recognition from analysts and fans alike.
Pegues, along with Ole Miss teammates LB Chris Paul Jr., TE Caden Prieskorn, and WR Antwane ‘Juice’ Wells Jr., represented the Rebels in the all-star event. Initially, WR Tre Harris was also expected to play, but he was later removed from the event’s roster.
Pegues’ performance stood out, catching the attention of scouts and earning praise from the NFL Network’s social media team. A video posted on their social media accounts showcased Pegues executing a remarkable one-handed defensive play, captioned:
“Only one hand needed for JJ Pegues @OleMissFB The 100th @ShrineBowl on NFL Network Stream on @NFLPlus.”
The Shrine Bowl serves as a platform for NFL hopefuls to compete against top-tier talent and increase their draft stock. Pegues, known for his versatility, made a strong statement with his dominant defensive play.
Pegues originally committed to Auburn out of Oxford High School in Mississippi before transferring to his hometown Ole Miss. Over his three seasons with the Rebels, he recorded 110 total tackles — 51 of which were solo — paired with five pass deflections and 10 sacks.
His final collegiate season saw him tally 42 tackles and 3.5 sacks while also contributing offensively by carrying the ball 21 times for 69 yards and seven scores.
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His efforts helped secure him a spot in the prestigious all-star game, which was held at AT&T Stadium in Dallas, Texas, on Jan. 30. Along with fans and other supporters, the crowd included scouts and staff from all 32 NFL teams. The Shrine Bowl is only one step in a long NFL Draft season.
It will conclude with the 2025 NFL Draft held April 24-26 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. Pegues’ performance at the Shrine Bowl could enhance his chances of being selected in a higher round.
Pegues Honored With Chucky Mullins Courage Award
In July 2024, Pegues received the Chucky Mullins Courage Award, a significant honor within the Ole Miss football program. This award, presented annually, recognizes a defensive player who exemplifies leadership, determination, and perseverance.
Pegues became the 34th recipient in the award’s 35-year history and wore Mullins’ No. 38 jersey for home games while keeping his No. 89 jersey with a No. 38 patch for away games. Expressing his gratitude, Pegues stated:
“It’s a blessing. Growing up here, being five and six (years old) and hearing about the award, and my family always spoke highly of the award. I knew once I got back and knew more about this award, I just really wanted to be that guy to represent him and his legacy.”
The award commemorates Chucky Mullins, a former Ole Miss player who was paralyzed during a game in 1989 and passed away in 1991. Sponsored by the Phi Beta Sigma fraternity, it continues to honor Mullins’ legacy of resilience and courage.
Pegues played all 13 games for Ole Miss in 2023. He recorded career highs with 42 tackles, 8.0 tackles for loss, 3.5 sacks, and four pass breakups. His versatility was evident when he rushed for a crucial first down in Ole Miss’ Peach Bowl victory over Penn State. Previously, in 2022, he caught a one-yard touchdown pass in the Egg Bowl, further demonstrating his diverse skill set.
Off the field, Pegues was actively involved in the Lafayette-Oxford-University community. He participated in numerous service initiatives and was a member of the SEC Leadership Council, SEC Community Service Team, and Ole Miss Student-Athlete Advisory Committee.
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His efforts included organizing a school supply giveaway for elementary students, reflecting his commitment to giving back.
For his leadership and impact, Pegues was named to the Wuerffel Trophy watch list. The trophy honors an FBS player who excels in community service, leadership, and academic achievement.
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