Every NFL Team's Best Undrafted Free Agent in Camp This Year
Not every future NFL star hails from the early rounds of the draft. In fact, some of the league's best and brightest were not drafted at all.
While it is nearly impossible to predict exactly which rookies will one day become premier players, we can make an educated guess about which ones are currently on the right track. Over the next 32 pages, we will focus on the undrafted rookies who are turning heads around the league.
We will include one undrafted free agent for each franchise based on the latest reports and rumors coming out of offseason workouts and training camps. Teams are listed by division in alphabetical order.
Buffalo Bills: LB Jimmy Gaines
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It always makes for a good story when a young player receives an opportunity to play for his hometown franchise. Such is the case for Buffalo native and former University of Miami linebacker Jimmy Gaines, who has a strong chance of sticking with the Buffalo Bills in camp this season.
The former Hurricanes standout racked up 54 solo tackles in 2013 and will look to catch on in defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz's system. According to Gaines, he saw the system as a perfect fit.
"It just all happened to feel right, and that has nothing to do with me being from Buffalo either," Gaines said, via the Bills' official team website. "With the linebacker situation and the defensive scheme and what they are trying to do here, I was really interested."
According to ESPN reporter Mike Rodak, Gaines has already seen some practice time with the first-team defense at weak-side linebacker. This could be a strong indication that the team believes Gaines is a nice fit as well.
Miami Dolphins: DT Anthony Johnson
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According to Hank Brady of The Times-Picayune, former LSU defensive tackle Anthony Johnson slipped out of the draft due to a poor combine performance and disputed drug test results.
However, the one-time 5-star recruit will have an opportunity to showcase his talents with the Miami Dolphins as an undrafted free agent.
The 6'3", 308-pound defender was originally graded as a fourth-round selection by NFLDraftScout.com. He amassed 35 tackles, including nine for a loss, in 2013.
Johnson has already impressed head coach Joe Philbin with his quickness and explosion, according to Brady.
New England Patriots: LB Cameron Gordon
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Oftentimes, an undrafted free agent has to find a way to stand out on special teams in order to stick with an NFL franchise as a rookie. This might be a desirable route for former Michigan safety and linebacker Cameron Gordon, who is trying to earn a roster spot with the New England Patriots.
According to Doug Kyed of NESN.com, Gordon has stated that he played every unit of special teams during his career at Michigan and has no qualms about being a special teamer for the Patriots.
"Special teams is definitely a strong suit here," Gordon said, via Kyed. "You definitely want to make the team on special teams."
According to ESPN reporter Mike Reiss, the Patriots are thin at the linebacker spot and could possibly have room for Gordon in a reserve role there as well.
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New York Jets: DE Kerry Hyder
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Former Texas Tech defensive end Kerry Hyder may be a long shot to make the final roster of the New York Jets. However, he is an intriguing prospect with the potential to earn a job as a rotational defender.
According to Seth Walder of the New York Daily News, the 6'2", 290-pound defender made some big plays in spring practices. Walder also reported that Hyder looked good in one-on-one drills early in training camp.
Hyder produced 65 total tackles, including 11.5 for a loss, with Texas Tech in 2013.
Baltimore Ravens: WR Jeremy Butler
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Though he may be a small-school product, former Tennessee-Martin standout Jeremy Butler may have big things in store with the Baltimore Ravens.
According to Aaron Wilson of The Baltimore Sun, Butler has consistently drawn praise from team officials.
The 6'2", 225-pound receiver produced an impressive 1,953 yards receiving and 20 touchdowns over the past two seasons with Tennessee-Martin. This combination of size and proven production makes Butler an interesting prospect who could work himself into a significant role down the road.
Cincinnati Bengals: DT LaKendrick Ross
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The Cincinnati Bengals are already deep along the defensive line, but that hasn't stopped the team from taking a chance on former Virginia-Lynchburg defensive tackle LaKendrick Ross.
Ross declared for this year's supplemental draft, but he was not selected. Instead, the 6'5", 365-pound defender signed with Cincinnati as a free agent.
His size and strength could earn him playing time along the line in a reserve role.
Head coach Marvin Lewis called Ross "one of the biggest people I have ever seen. Stronger than anybody in the building," according to Cincinnati Enquirer writer Paul Dehner Jr.
Cleveland Browns: QB Connor Shaw
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Though he has clearly been overshadowed by fellow rookie Johnny Manziel, there is a chance that undrafted quarterback Connor Shaw could still play a big part in the future of the Cleveland Browns.
Of course, Shaw is unlikely to make an immediate impact for the team, but the former South Carolina star has the potential to develop into a long-term backup signal-caller (yes, these are good to have around).
"My job right now is to take advantage of the reps I get and make sure I’m ready whenever they call me," Shaw said, via Nate Ulrich of the Akron Beacon-Journal. "So I’m just going to establish my role, and whenever my name’s called, I’m going to be ready."
Right now, Shaw is competing with journeyman Tyler Thigpen to become the Browns' No. 3 quarterback.
Expect Cleveland to give him plenty of consideration over Thigpen due to his superior upside. He passed for 2,447 yards with 24 touchdowns and just one interception last season with the Gamecocks.
Pittsburgh Steelers: LB Howard Jones
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Though he was originally projected as a fourth- or fifth-round prospect, former Shepherd linebacker Howard Jones found his way to the Pittsburgh Steelers as an undrafted free agent.
Jones is an intriguing prospect for the Steelers, mainly due to his ability to make high-impact plays on the football field. During his four years at Shepherd, he produced 71 tackles for a loss, eight forced fumbles and an incredible 34.5 sacks.
According to ESPN's Scott Brown, veteran linebacker Lawrence Timmons recently singled out Jones as a player with a chance to provide depth at the outside linebacker spot.
Houston Texans: LB Max Bullough
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Former Michigan State standout Max Bullough landed with the Houston Texans as an undrafted free agent, even though he was widely considered to be a fourth- or fifth-round prospect.
According to the team's official website, Houston has decided to test Bullough's leadership skills early in training camp. He was given the responsibility of calling the defense for the third unit.
If the Texans decide to stick with Bullough, the team will be inheriting a three-year starter and two-time All-Big Ten selection. Bullough produced 76 tackles and 1.5 sacks in 2013.
Indianapolis Colts: RB Zurlon Tipton
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Former Central Michigan running back Zurlon Tipton may have a better chance of making the final 53-man roster now that the Indianapolis Colts have lost veteran Vick Ballard for the season with a torn Achilles tendon.
The 6'0", 223-pound Tipton is a strong, physical runner who could see playing time behind Trent Richardson and Ahmad Bradshaw as a rookie if he passes the final cut day.
According to Josh Wilson of SB Nation, Colts head coach Chuck Pageno has given high praise to Tipton as well as to some of the other young backs currently on the roster. It will be interesting to see how the Colts handle the position moving forward.
Jacksonville Jaguars: TE Marcel Jensen
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Former Fresno State tight end Marcel Jensen landed with the Jacksonville Jaguars as an undrafted free agent, but he may have a chance to make the final roster due to his exceptional size (6'6", 259 pounds).
Jensen was rated as a fifth- or sixth-round selection by NFL.com leading up to the draft.
According to Ryan O'Halloran of The Florida Times-Union, Jensen had sports hernia surgery before the draft, which delayed his start to the offseason program. However, once he got onto the field, he impressed with his receiving skills.
Tennessee Titans: RB Antonio Andrews
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It appears that second-round draft pick Bishop Sankey will receive every opportunity to replace Chris Johnson as the Tennessee Titans' featured running back. However, that doesn't mean that undrafted runner Antonio Andrews cannot find a way to contribute as a rookie.
The former Western Kentucky standout was projected as a fourth- or fifth-round draft pick by NFL.com, but he may have slipped due to his less-than-ideal speed.
Andrews flashed plenty of playmaking ability in college, racking up 1,730 rushing yards and 16 touchdowns in 2013 alone. He also seems to have the confidence to succeed at the pro level.
"When you don't get drafted, people don't expect you to make it in the NFL," he said, via Dave Climer of The Tennessean. "I understand that. But I feel like I'm going to make it. I really do."
Denver Broncos: CB Louis Young
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The defending AFC champion Denver Broncos added plenty of new pieces to the defense early in the offseason. However, there is still a strong chance that former Georgia Tech defensive back Louis Young could find a way to make the final 53-man roster.
According to Troy E. Renck of The Denver Post, Young has backed up a strong early showing with several good plays in pass defense during training camp.
He produced 40 total tackles and two interceptions with Georgia Tech last season.
Kansas City Chiefs: WR Albert Wilson
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After losing Dexter McCluster in free agency, the Kansas City Chiefs have a need for a player who can step in and perform at wide receiver and in the return game. This could be the exact opportunity undrafted Georgia State product Albert Wilson needs to make it in the NFL.
According to Tarez Paylor of The Kansas City Star, Wilson has already caught the attention of special teams coordinator Dave Toub.
"Today in pads, I liked Wilson," Toub said, via Paylor. "Wilson looked really good as a punt returner: caught it, great burst, he runs hard, catching the ball effortlessly as far as a punt goes."
Wilson returned 31 kicks for a 23.5-yard average and 15 punts for a 8.3-yard average in 2013.
Oakland Raiders: LB Carlos Fields
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We won't be surprised if you haven't heard of Winston-Salem State product Carlos Fields (or if you haven't heard of Winston-Salem State, for that matter), but you may be hearing from Fields with the Oakland Raiders in 2014.
The small-school product has the size (6'1", 238 pounds) and the speed (4.51 second 40-yards dash) to earn a roster spot as a reserve linebacker and special teams player with the Raiders.
According to Levi Damien of SB Nation, Fields has been spotted at training camp bowling over offensive linemen. If this quick defender can continue to make plays throughout training camp, he should have a legitimate shot at making the final 53-man roster.
San Diego Chargers: DT Tenny Palepoi
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Former Utah standout Tenny Palepoi was graded by NFL.com as a potential fifth- or sixth-round draft pick heading into May's draft. However, he did not hear his name called on draft day.
The good news is that Palepoi, an athletic 298-pound interior defender, should have a decent shot at earning a rotational role with the San Diego Chargers.
According to ESPN's Eric D. Williams, there is plenty of talent along the San Diego defensive line. However, Palepoi has managed to stand out in pass-rush drills by showing the ability to push the pocket from the interior.
Dallas Cowboys: DT Davon Coleman
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It shouldn't come as a surprise that the Dallas Cowboys are looking to fill holes on the defense considering the team ranked dead-last in yards allowed (415.3 yards per game) a season ago. Former Arizona State defensive tackle Davon Coleman should have a solid opportunity to fill one of those holes, despite going undrafted back in May.
According to Bleacher Report featured columnist John Owning (who provides a superb scouting report here), Coleman was deserving of more credit on the Arizona State defense but was overshadowed by other players.
Per CFBStats.com, he racked up 15 tackles for a loss in 2013, with 58 tackles overall. His ability to make plays in the backfield could allow Coleman to earn a significant role with the Cowboys as a rookie.
Coleman has been "giving interior linemen fits with his quickness" in training camp, according to DallasCowboys.com writer Rowan Kavner.
New York Giants: LB Dan Fox
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Despite leading the Notre Dame defense in tackles in 2013, linebacker Dan Fox went undrafted in May. He could wind up earning a roster spot as a depth player and special teams contributor with the New York Giants.
According to Conor Orr of The Star-Ledger, Fox saw frequent work during OTAs and minicamps and could be the surprise of the linebacker group.
He certainly showed at Notre Dame that he has the instincts to produce on the football field. Fox finished the 2013 season with 95 total tackles, two interceptions, five tackles for a loss and one sack.
Philadelphia Eagles: TE Trey Burton
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Trey Burton performed a variety of roles at Florida. He saw time at tight end, H-back, wide receiver and even at quarterback.
That versatility is what makes Burton an intriguing prospect for the Philadelphia Eagles and Chip Kelly's offense.
According to Elliot Shorr-Parks of NJ.com, he has a decent chance of making the team as long as his blocking develops at an acceptable rate.
"[He] appears to be the swiss-army knife style player that head coach Chip Kelly loves," Shorr-Parks recently wrote. "Burton had an impressive showing during mini-camps, making a number of catches and looking smooth after the catch. The biggest concern with Burton will be if he can block."
Washington Redskins: RB Silas Redd
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Former USC running back Silas Redd did not hear his name called during the 2014 draft, but he could emerge as a competent role player in the Washington Redskins offense.
Though he was limited to just six appearances last season for the Trojans, Redd managed to rush for 376 yards and a touchdown with a respectable 4.64 yards-per-carry average.
According to Mike Jones of The Washington Post, he has been working ahead of sixth-round pick Lache Seastrunk early in training camp.
Chicago Bears: RB Jordan Lynch
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Former Northern Illinois quarterback Jordan Lynch may be undergoing a position change with the Chicago Bears, but that hasn't stopped him from garnering attention this offseason.
According to Adam L. Jahns of the Chicago Sun-Times, Lynch has been a popular fan attraction early in training camp. Being a former star at local Mt. Carmel High School might have a little something to do with that.
However, Lynch will have to show that he has what it takes to succeed on the field as a converted running back in order to impress the decision-makers who matter. So far, it appears that he has the skills to make a successful transition and potentially stay on the roster through camp.
"From my perspective, everything I saw visually is that he worked his tail off," general manager Phil Emery said of Lynch, via the Chicago Sun-Times. "The guy has good hands, he has good feet, he has good run skills, so there’s no reason for him not to be a running back."
Detroit Lions: OL Cornelius Lucas
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Former Kansas State offensive tackle Cornelius Lucas is a very interesting free agent, mostly due to his freakish size (6'8", 316 pounds).
Though Lucas is likely a developmental prospect, there is a good indication that the Lions want to keep the mammoth blocker around for the long term.
"Lucas is an intriguing prospect," Kyle Meinke of MLive.com recently wrote. "The Lions gave him a $20,000 signing bonus, which suggests they're optimistic about Lucas sticking in Detroit."
Green Bay Packers: LB Adrian Hubbard
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Though he was originally projected as a third- or fourth-round prospect, the Green Bay Packers managed to land former Alabama linebacker Adrian Hubbard as an undrafted free agent.
Hubbard started 13 games for the Crimson Tide in 2013 and produced 33 tackles with 5.5 for a loss and three sacks. ESPN's Rob Demovsky recently labeled him as a player worth keeping an eye on in camp.
The 6'6", 257-pound defender was a two-year starter at Alabama and should have a good chance to land a role with the Packers as a rookie this coming season.
Minnesota Vikings: DE Rakim Cox
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Former Villanova defensive end Rakim Cox has already inherited Jared Allen's number with the Minnesota Vikings. Now, the 6'4", 260-pound defender will try to inherit his roster spot.
According to Ted Glover of SB Nation, Cox is probably a long shot to make the final 53-man roster, but he does bring plenty of experience with him to the NFL and could emerge as a special teams player or practice squad addition.
Cox was a four-year starter at Villanova and started 46 of a possible 47 games during his career.
Atlanta Falcons: WR Bernard Reedy
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The Atlanta Falcons already have an impressive group of receivers that includes the likes of Julio Jones, Roddy White and Harry Douglas.
However, undrafted receiver Bernard Reedy may have a chance to stick with the group, thanks to his ability. The former Toledo standout racked up 840 yards and eight touchdowns in 2013 and returned 40 combined kicks for a total of 767 return yards.
According to ESPN's Vaughn McClure, Reedy has been extremely impressive during workouts: "His explosive cuts and nifty deep-ball catches impressed Falcons coaches and left some teammates in awe. His 4.39 speed in the 40 was clearly evident."
Carolina Panthers: RB Darrin Reaves
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According to Mike Huguenin of NFL.com, UAB running back Darrin Reaves first made the decision to turn pro after receiving a fourth-round grade from the NFL Draft Advisory Board.
However, he was not drafted and wound up with the Carolina Panthers as a free agent.
Though the Panthers already have Jonathan Stewart and DeAngelo Williams on the roster, Reaves could land a reserve role with the team, especially with how injury-prone Stewart has proved to be thus far.
With fellow rookie back Tyler Gaffney lost for the season, Reaves should have a better chance to stick. He rushed for 2,337 yards in his collegiate career.
New Orleans Saints: WR Brandon Coleman
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Despite being projected as a third- or fourth-round selection, former Rutgers wide receiver Brandon Coleman did not hear his name called during the 2014 draft.
He could wind up being a steal for the New Orleans Saints, who signed Coleman as an undrafted free agent.
The 6'6", 225-pound pass-catcher produced 1,256 yards and 14 touchdowns over the past two seasons at Rutgers. According to WWL-TV reporter Lyons Yellin, he has been working with the second-team offense in training camp.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers: LB Nate Askew
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Though he was making the transition from wide receiver to linebacker last season, Texas A&M's Nate Askew managed to make enough plays to stand out from the crowd. While he wasn't drafted, Askew found his way to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as a free agent and will compete to earn a roster spot as a depth player.
Though he is still learning the position, Askew caught the attention of his new head coach early on in the offseason. "For Nate, you notice him. Big, strong, fast, but he's green," coach Lovie Smith said, via Greg Auman of the Tampa Bay Times.
According to Auman, Askew could stick on the roster if the Buccaneers decide to carry at least six linebackers into the season. He would likely perform on special teams while continuing to adjust to life as an NFL linebacker.
Arizona Cardinals: RB Damien Thigpen
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Former UCLA running back Damien Thigpen faces an uphill battle to make the final roster of the Arizona Cardinals as a running back. But his speed may give him a chance to earn a role as a special teams player and reserve back.
According to NFLDraftScout.com, Thigpen has been clocked as low as 4.36 seconds in the 40-yard dash. That type of speed is obviously impossible to coach and is also difficult to defend. The fact that cornerback Patrick Peterson will no longer be utilized as a return specialist could open up an opportunity for him.
Thigpen returned 27 kickoffs for 640 yards and made 18 special teams tackles in his career at UCLA, according to ArizonaSports.com.
San Francisco 49ers: S James McCray
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Catawba College product James McCray may not have an opportunity to sniff the starting lineup with the San Francisco 49ers anytime soon. After all, the team already has Antoine Bethea and Eric Reid on the roster, and did draft safety Jimmie Ward in the first round of May's draft.
However, the former small-school star has managed to stand out thus far in the offseason and could earn playing time in a reserve role or on special teams.
"He’s done well for a small-school guy," defensive coordinator Vic Fangio said of McCray, via the team's official website. "He’s got good ability. He’s got good speed and he’s tough. (He) shows some instincts."
Seattle Seahawks: Morrell Presley
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Former California University of Pennsylvania wide receiver Morrell Presley is an intriguing prospect for the Seattle Seahawks. The recently signed pass-catcher has a nice blend of size (6'4", 225 pounds) and speed and could challenge for playing time as both a receiver and tight end.
According to John Boyle of The Daily Herald, Presley has been working with the tight ends in camp.
While the defending Super Bowl champions do not have a ton of glaring needs, it never hurts to have too many large-bodied pass-catchers on the roster. Presley should have a decent shot at making the team.
St. Louis Rams: LB Aaron Hill
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Former Minnesota Golden Gophers star Aaron Hill amassed an impressive 72 total tackles in 2013 with two interceptions and two forced fumbles. Yet the team captain and All-Big Ten honorable mention went undrafted in May before landing with the St. Louis Rams.
The Rams could well have some openings at the linebacker position, but Hill will likely have to earn a roster spot on special teams, according to ESPN's Nick Wagoner. The good news is that he already appears to be gaining the attention, and trust, of his position coach.
"There’s a level of trust that happens with coaches and players, and he’s developing trust from us," linebackers coach Frank Bush said of Hill, via Joe Perovich of MNDaily.com. "That trust will give him a little bit more responsibility. It’ll give him an excellent opportunity to make this team."
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