Every year, a few undrafted free agents prove that talent can slip through the cracks. While NFL teams spend months scouting, ranking, and investing draft capital in hundreds of prospects, there are always players who go undrafted and still manage to carve out roles at the next level. These guys don’t just survive training camp, they make rosters, contribute on Sundays, and in some cases, build long NFL careers.
The 2025 UDFA class features several intriguing prospects who have both the talent and the opportunity to stick on an NFL roster. Whether they were overlooked because of poor testing, injuries, or small-school status, these five players have the skill sets to contribute as rookies.
Five undrafted rookies ready to prove they belong
1. Xavier Restrepo, WR, Tennessee Titans
Xavier Restrepo entered the draft with a high grade before a disappointing 40-yard dash caused his stock to slide. Still, the former Miami standout left college as the program’s all-time leading receiver, racking up 200 catches for 2,844 yards and 21 touchdowns. What makes Restrepo effective is his sharp route-running, reliable hands—just two drops last season—and his focus in traffic. He also reunites with former Miami teammate Cam Ward in Tennessee, a connection that could help him carve out a role early.
2. Efton Chism, WR, New England Patriots
Former Eastern Washington wideout Efton Chism was highlighted back in February by NFL Mocks in an “Underrated and Overlooked” piece, and he’s proving that label accurate. After going undrafted, Chism quickly signed with the Patriots and has consistently turned heads in camp. Head coach Mike Vrabel praised him, saying, “I think he’s a talented player. I think he has a certain skill set. He’s dedicated. He studied extremely hard. He has a good feel for what we’re asking him to do.” Don’t be surprised if Chism earns a spot on the 53-man roster as a backup slot receiver this season.
Efton Chism looking fast at Patriots mini-camp 👀
— Patriots on CLNS Media (@PatriotsCLNS) June 9, 2025
-#patriots #newenglandpatriots pic.twitter.com/YINBaUBSkD
3. Seth McLaughlin, C, Cincinnati Bengals
Ohio State’s Seth McLaughlin was the top center in college football last season, winning the Rimington Trophy and earning All-American honors. His season was cut short by a torn Achilles on November 19th, an injury that caused him to go undrafted. Despite that setback, McLaughlin landed in a strong situation with the Bengals and is expected to make the roster as a backup center. It wouldn’t be surprising if he eventually pushes veteran Ted Karras for the starting job. Another undrafted center worth watching is former Texas standout Jake Majors, who has a legitimate shot at making the Buccaneers’ final roster.
4. Nazir Stackhouse, DT, Green Bay Packers
The Packers added one of college football’s top run stuffers last season by signing Nazir Stackhouse as an undrafted free agent. Standing 6-foot-4 and weighing 327 pounds, his size and raw strength make him a force against the run. With the team not bringing back TJ Slaton this offseason, Stackhouse has a clear path to compete for a roster spot at nose tackle.
5. Zy Alexander, CB, Seattle Seahawks
Former LSU cornerback Zy Alexander was one of the top players on my board who went undrafted. I had him rated as a third-round talent. What sets Alexander apart are his ball skills, with 13 career interceptions in college. Last season in the SEC, he was a shutdown corner, allowing only 44% of passes thrown his way to be completed. Given the Seahawks’ thin secondary depth, he has a real shot at making their roster.