Every NFL Team's 2024 Undrafted Free Agent Most Likely to Make the Roster
May 5, 2024Every NFL Team's 2024 Undrafted Free Agent Most Likely to Make the Roster
After the NFL draft ends, the real work begins. Teams scramble to sign undrafted prospects as free agents, hoping to find some diamonds in the rough.
UDFAs often face an uphill battle to make their respective teams' 53-man rosters. But if they shine throughout the offseason, training camp and the preseason, it can be done.
While rookie minicamps across the league will largely focus on early-round picks, the following undrafted free agents have the opportunity to rise up the depth chart this offseason and secure their spot on an NFL roster this fall.
Arizona Cardinals: WR Xavier Weaver
Xavier Weaver was a standout at South Florida, where he caught 94 passes for 1,433 yards and eight touchdowns across the 2021 and 2022 seasons. He then transferred to Colorado to end his collegiate career under the tutelage of head coach Deion Sanders.
While quarterback Shedeur Sanders and CB/WR hybrid Travis Hunter drew most of the spotlight last season, Weaver quietly posted 908 yards, leading all Colorado pass-catchers.
At 6'1" and 169 pounds, Weaver has an excellent release package, and he isn't afraid to mix it up in the condensed areas at the second level.
Atlanta Falcons: WR JaQuae Jackson
Beyond Drake London and Darnell Mooney, the Atlanta Falcons' depth chart at wide receiver is muddy despite the offseason addition of Rondale Moore. They spent a sixth-round pick on Casey Washington, but they otherwise have the likes of Ray-Ray McCloud and KhaDarel Hodge to battle it out for snaps.
JaQuae Jackson, who shined at Division II California University of Pennsylvania before transferring to Rutgers last season, has the size (6'2", 190 lbs), ball skills and physicality that should impress staff in Arizona. He caught 22 passes for 361 yards with the Scarlet Knights last season, with his lone touchdown coming against Ohio State.
Baltimore Ravens: S Beau Brade
It was a shock to not hear Beau Brade's name called on draft weekend. The hybrid defender made a living sniffing out run plays and erasing tight ends up the seam at Maryland.
Last season alone, Brade totaled 75 tackles, four tackles for loss, six pass breakups, one interception and one forced fumble.
While this year's safety class left much to be desired from top to bottom, Brade now has a clear opportunity to make the Baltimore Ravens' roster as a multi-faceted contributor.
Buffalo Bills: IOL Keaton Bills
The name fits, huh?
Keaton Bills provides a physicality at the guard spot that offensive line coaches covet.
A team captain during his time under Utah head coach Kyle Whittingham, Bills was a mainstay along the Utes' front five. He accrued 2,621 snaps at left guard in five seasons and allowed only three career sacks against Pac-12 competition, according to Pro Football Focus.
Carolina Panthers: WR Jalen Coker
Jalen Coker was one of the premier wideouts among lower-level prospects. He figures to open eyes in Carolina this summer.
After being invited to both the Shrine Bowl and the NFL Scouting Combine, Coker remained a common topic of conversation surrounding Day 3 pass-catchers. While he didn't hear his name called during the draft, Coker enters Carolina with an excellent opportunity to prove why the attention surrounding his game in the predraft process wasn't a fluke.
Coker's knack for winning on high-leverage downs gives him an excellent floor as a prospect looking to crack the roster.
Chicago Bears: QB Austin Reed
The Chicago Bears just spent the No. 1 overall pick on USC quarterback Caleb Williams, so there's no question about who they'll have starting under center this fall. But the Bears could have an open competition for the backup job.
Last year, the Bears added Tyson Bagent as an undrafted free agent. He ultimately earned the right to backup then-starter Justin Fields.
Austin Reed is heading to Chicago with a long list of accolades, ridiculous production against FBS competition and a throwback type of approach under center that could move the needle for Bears staff.
Teams usually tend to roster a backup with a similar skill set to that of its starter, but Reed's ability to flat-out spin it could force general manager Ryan Poles to think twice about that.
Cincinnati Bengals: WR Cole Burgess
Cortland State has had only one alum play regular-season NFL snaps (DL R-Kal Truluck in the early 2000s). Cole Burgess could be the next.
As a member of both SUNY Cortland's football and baseball program, Burgess was one of the more versatile prospects in this year's draft class. The 6'1", 200-pound pass-catcher dominated the Division III level, totaling 1,375 yards and 16 touchdowns last season alone. That included a nine-catch, 245-yard, three-touchdown performance in November.
However, he didn't only make an impact as a pass-catcher. An electric return man, Burgess totaled 1,647 yards three touchdowns in four seasons for the Red Dragons.
That versatility should help him challenge for a roster spot this summer.
Cleveland Browns: IOL Javion Cohen
After three seasons under Nick Saban at Alabama, Javion Cohen transferred to Miami ahead of last season. He now heads to the Cleveland Browns with nary a scratch on his resume.
While Pro Football Focus credits him with allowing a sack, Cohen told B/R that he didn't allow a quarterback takedown in any of his 1,332 pass-blocking snaps during his four years in college and the sack was wrongly accredited to him.
Cleveland touts one of the NFL's top starting guard tandems with Joel Bitonio and Wyatt Teller, but depth is annually tested. Cohen's blend of athleticism and Power Five experience could move the needle for head coach Kevin Stefanski.
Dallas Cowboys: LB Brock Mogensen
A first-team FCS All-American and the Missouri Valley Defensive Player of the Year, Brock Mogensen has a shot to stick with the Dallas Cowboys.
The Cowboys have annually attempted to add production at linebacker since losing Sean Lee years ago. Mogensen's physicality and instincts at the second level could allow him to evolve into a core special teamer at minimum.
Dallas is still attempting to figure out what it has in 2022 fifth-round pick Damone Clark and 2023 third-round pick DeMarvion Overshown, the latter of whom did not play last season. Mogensen is the type of downhill defender who could open eyes quickly.
Denver Broncos: S Omar Brown
Every year, some versatile secondary player flies under the radar before making an impact early as a rookie.
Last spring, Denver struck gold by adding Youngstown State running back Jaleel McLaughlin as a UDFA. In 2024, that prospect could be Nebraska safety Omar Brown.
Brown has the size (6'1", 200 pounds) to play near the line of scrimmage, the hips and coverage ability to mirror tight ends up the seam and the instincts to make plays all over the field.
Detroit Lions: IOL Kingsley Eguakun
Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell is all about adding toughness. Offense, defense, it doesn't matter.
While an ankle injury limited Florida center Kingsley Eguakun last season, his five years of experience in the SEC should give him the potential to crack the Lions' roster. He should showcase well in isolated opportunities at the pivot spot.
Eguakun is a calculated puncher with his hands, and he has the mobility to pull from the interior. He could quickly work his way up the Lions' depth chart.
Green Bay Packers: LS Peter Bowden
It'd be poetic if Wisconsin long-snapper Peter Bowden makes the Green Bay Packers' roster.
The Packers have had at least one UDFA make the 53-man roster in 19 straight seasons, according to ESPN's Rob Demovsky. Bowden is expected to battle with veteran Matthew Orzech for the Packers' starting gig this summer.
This past season, the former Badger was a finalist for the Patrick Mannelly award, which goes to the country's top long-snapper. Don't be surprised if the former Badger wins the job over Orzech this offseason.
Houston Texans: DL Pheldarius Payne
Virginia Tech's Pheldarius Payne was excellent this past season, finishing seventh in pressures among all defensive tackles in the ACC. He accrued more pressures (23) than the likes of Tyler Davis (Clemson) and Leonard Taylor III (Miami) and sacks than middle-round selections such as Ruke Orhorhoro (Clemson) and DeWayne Carter (Duke).
Payne's pro day was also an eye-opener for teams, as he logged a 4.85-second 40-yard dash at 286 pounds. That time would have been tied for second among all NFL combine participants at his position.
His 1.65-second 10-yard split, which showcases a player's initial explosiveness off the line, also would have ranked second only to LSU's Mekhi Wingo at the combine.
Indianapolis Colts: EDGE Jeblonski Green Jr.
NFL teams can never have enough defenders who understand how to push the pocket.
Jeblonski Green Jr. was one of the headliners among draft-eligible HBCU products. He recorded 71 pressures and 16 sacks at South Carolina State, the same program that produced the likes of DL Javon Hargrave, LB Shaquille Leonard and DB Cobie Durant.
Green could be next in line to make an impact at the NFL level.
Jacksonville Jaguars: WR Joshua Cephus
After losing wide receiver Calvin Ridley in free agency, the Jacksonville Jaguars found his possible heir apparent in Brian Thomas Jr. in the first round. But if you squint hard enough, there are some similarities Thomas and UDFA Joshua Cephus.
Cephus' frame and athleticism at 6'3" often forced double-teams from opposing secondaries. The UTSA product is a long strider with the get-up-and-go to push past corners in man. His ability to dominate smaller, less experienced corners remained on display during his five years as a Roadrunner, and he set a school record with 1,151 receiving yards to go with 10 touchdowns last season.
Cephus could emerge as a preseason darling, earning himself a spot above the cut line come August.
Kansas City Chiefs: LB Curtis Jacobs
The Kansas City Chiefs allowed linebacker Willie Gay to walk in free agency, leaving questions in the middle of the defense.
While Nick Bolton, Drue Tranquill and Leo Chenal are all returning, Penn State's Curtis Jacobs could provide key depth at the position.
Jacobs was the No. 2 linebacker recruit in the class of 2020, according to 247Sports. While he has yet to marry his elite athleticism and fundamental ability as a football player, he has an immense floor as a special teamer with the potential to earn rotational snaps.
Las Vegas Raiders: IOL Will Putnam
The Las Vegas Raiders signed Andre James as a UDFA in 2019. He has started 48 games at center for them over the past three seasons.
This spring, Will Putnam will try to follow in James' footsteps. The Clemson product is a man-mover along the front five who allowed only one sack in 513 pass-protection snaps last season.
The Raiders added Jackson Powers-Johnson in the second round to boost their interior right away. But Putnam could add key depth at center and guard if Powers-Johnson or anyone else along the offensive line were to miss time.
Los Angeles Chargers: S Akeem Dent
The Los Angeles Chargers have always prioritized versatility. Florida State safety Akeem Dent fits that script to a T.
Dent has experience playing at all three levels with varying assignments, and he operates with the physicality and playmaking ability that defensive coordinators covet.
Dent amassed 16 pass breakups during his five-year tenure at Florida State, and he recorded more than 300 snaps in the box, at nickel, outside corner and free safety. That type of versatility often paves the way not only for an NFL roster spot, but actual snaps.
Los Angeles Rams: S Kenny Logan Jr.
Kenny Logan Jr. is a former running back turned safety. He could push the likes of Jason Taylor II, Russ Yeast and rookie third-rounder Kam Kinchens for snaps with the Los Angeles Rams this season.
One of the Big 12's most productive and fear-enducing defenders, Logan flips a switch when he steps in between the lines.
A two-time All-Big 12 honoree and the glue that held together the Jayhawks defense, Logan amassed 11 pass breakups and three interceptions in his final two seasons at Kansas.
Miami Dolphins: S Mark Perry
Mark Perry was a contributor for five seasons at both Colorado and TCU. He boasts a hybrid skill set to play a variety of spots at 215 pounds.
Miami signed veteran safety Jordan Poyer from Buffalo in free agency and drafted Patrick McMorris in the sixth round. But Perry's ability to erase tight ends up the seam only to extend out to cover wideouts is a skill set not matched by many UDFAs in the class.
The path to cracking the roster is a long road for any undrafted player, but Perry's size, coverage ability and 2,860 snaps of experience against Power Five competition could move the needle.
Minnesota Vikings: EDGE Gabriel Murphy
Gabriel Murphy was overshadowed by Indianapolis Colts first-rounder Laiatu Latu at UCLA, but he was one of the country's premier pass-rushers in 2023. He will enter camp as one of the Minnesota Vikings' most fundamentally talented pass-rushers.
Former UDFA Andre Carter II remains on the Vikings roster, and Minnesota signed Jihad Ward in free agency. However, that shouldn't affect Murphy's ability to challenge for a legitimate role this fall.
NFL teams got a little too cute on his evaluation during the draft. Minnesota's staff deserves credit for prioritizing Murphy as a UDFA.
New England Patriots: IOL Charles Turner
Charles Turner III was the anchor for LSU's offensive line over the last two seasons. He should compete—and surprise—if the New England Patriots give him the opportunity this summer.
New England has used six picks on offensive linemen in the last three drafts. That leaves the door wide-open for Turner to quickly ascend up the depth chart.
At this year's Senior Bowl, Turner showcased an excellent anchor, powerful hands and the knack for identifying stunts and twists up front. His 1,758 snaps at LSU should assist in his transition to the NFL.
New Orleans Saints: TE Dallin Holker
Dallin Holker led all college tight ends in receiving yards last fall. The Colorado State product is a flex weapon who deserves more attention.
Holker attended both the Shrine Bowl and NFL combine in the lead-up to the draft. He's a Y/F alignment-versatile tight end who can play on all three downs if needed.
The New Orleans Saints' current depth chart at the position needs more pop. While the Saints made Holker their highest-paid UDFA, according to ESPN's Katherine Terrell, he could drastically outplay his contract early in 2024.
New York Giants: EDGE Ovie Oghoufo
After spending time at Notre Dame, Texas and LSU, edge-rusher Ovie Oghoufo enters the NFL with as much experience as anyone in the class.
Oghoufo is an aggressive, upfield pass-rusher with the athleticism and lateral agility to work the fringe areas. His 1,967 snaps within the front seven give him the ideal floor to compete for rotational snaps with the New York Giants.
The Giants were tied for the fourth-fewest sacks last season, so it's safe to say that they're looking for more impact at the position.
New York Jets: CB Jarius Monroe
Tulane cornerback Jarius Monroe was the defensive MVP of this year's Shrine Bowl. He's a man/zone versatile corner whose skill set could fit nicely with the New York Jets.
General manager Joe Douglas drafted CFL cornerback Qwan'tez Stiggers in the fifth round. But a good showing in minicamp, training camp and the preseason could help Monroe earn a rotational role.
Monroe's ability to also play in the box (191 career snaps) could also intrigue Jets defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich, who spent seven seasons with the Atlanta Falcons as their linebackers coach.
Philadelphia Eagles: DL Gabe Hall
It isn't draft season if Philadelphia Eagles general manager Howie Roseman isn't adding depth at edge-rusher.
While Roseman spent a third-round pick on Houston Christian's Jalyx Hunt, Baylor's Gabe Hall should have an opportunity to earn a roster spot this fall as well.
A massive man at 6'6" and 291 pounds, Hall possesses the alignment versatility that Roseman covets up front,along with the upfield push to keep offensive linemen honest on passing downs.
It remains to be seen exactly where Hall finds his niche along the defensive line, but his blend of length (34½-inch arms) and explosiveness will be hard to keep off the roster.
Pittsburgh Steelers: CB Beanie Bishop
Beanie Bishop was an impact player at Western Kentucky, Minnesota and West Virginia. Not only is he an intriguing secondary defender, but he also boasts special teams ability.
Bishop primarily aligned as a perimeter corner even though he's only 5'10" and 184 pounds. His footwork and fluid transitions consistently allow him to remain in phase with varying skill sets on the perimeter.
Bishop won't dominate pass-catchers inside the contact window or consistently tip the odds in contested-catch situations. However, he's a multifaceted contributor with the ability to flip the field—or take it the distance—in the blink of an eye.
San Francisco 49ers: DL Evan Anderson
Evan Anderson was one of the draft's premier run-stuffers. At worst, he should compete for snaps on early downs this fall with the San Francisco 49ers.
The Niners' depth chart at 1 and 3-tech is stacked, but Anderson could provide a jolt to a unit that lost Arik Armstead this offseason.
He shouldn't be expected to consistently push the pocket on passing downs, but Anderson has the anchor, footwork and strength in his upper half to offer depth against the run.
Seattle Seahawks: EDGE Nelson Ceaser
Houston edge-rusher Nelson Ceaser had 81 pressures over the last two seasons, which provides a small glimpse into his potential. He's a physically impressive pass-rusher with a knack for making plays at or behind the line of scrimmage (13.5 tackles for loss in 2023).
Ceaser should challenge for snaps this fall with the Seattle Seahawks. New head coach Mike Macdonald will preach physicality within his front seven.
Ceaser, a 2023 first-team All-Big 12 honoree, could slide in perfectly within an already youth-infused edge group.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers: LB Kalen DeLoach
Versatility remains king in today's NFL.
While Kalen DeLoach could be classified as a tweener, thus muddying his initial projection, the former Florida State standout has the instincts and coverage ability to wear multiple hats for Tampa Bay Buccaneers head coach Todd Bowles.
Last spring, Tampa Bay struck gold by adding hybrid corner/safety Christian Izien post-draft. DeLoach would give Tampa another versatile skill set to roam at varying depths this fall.
Tennessee Titans: IOL Cole Spencer
With more than 330 snaps accrued at left tackle (2,774), left guard (454) and right tackle (339), Cole Spencer's versatility could help him pave the way to a backup role with the Tennessee Titans.
Spencer transferred to Texas Tech after five seasons at Western Kentucky and quickly became the glue that held the Red Raiders' interior together. He allowed only one sack in six starts.
While Spencer's lengthy injury history raises concern about his NFL longevity, his athleticism—his 4.89-second 40-yard dash would have ranked first among all offensive linemen at the NFL combine—and tackle/guard versatility gives him an intriguing floor for new Titans head coach Brian Callahan.
Washington Commanders: DB Chigozie Anusiem
A long and physical corner, Chigozie Anusiem fits the mold of what new Washington Commanders head coach Dan Quinn covets in his perimeter defenders. He's built eerily similar to the corners already in Washington.
Anusiem's ability to seamlessly work downhill as a Cover 3 corner should give him a floor for success in the NFL.
Questions still remain about Benjamin St-Juste and 2023 first-rounder Emmanuel Forbes, so a solid showing this summer could help Anusiem suit up in a key rotational role for Washington this fall.