The 2025 NFL Draft has concluded, and while many players celebrated being selected, others are now eyeing opportunities as undrafted free agents. The history of undrafted players succeeding in the NFL is rich, featuring names like Kurt Warner, Tony Romo, and Wes Welker. These players often find their way into the league through what some refer to as the draft's "secret round." This spring, several notable players are already making headlines as they sign with teams after going undrafted.
One of the most talked-about names is Dino Tomlin, the son of Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin. After not being selected in the draft, Dino Tomlin has accepted an invitation to participate in the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' rookie minicamp scheduled for May. According to WTAE's Ashley Liotus, this minicamp is a three-day affair designed to give rookies a taste of NFL life, complete with team meetings, practices, and coaching sessions. Although participants are not officially signed to teams yet, it’s a crucial opportunity for them to showcase their skills and potentially earn a spot on the roster.
Dino Tomlin, who stands at 6'0" and weighs 188 pounds, transferred from the University of Maryland to Boston College before the 2022 season. He had his best collegiate season in 2023, where he recorded 24 receptions for 312 yards. This performance has given him a chance to prove himself at the professional level, despite not being drafted. Tomlin previously played high school football at Shady Side Academy, and now he hopes to follow in his father's footsteps in the NFL.
In addition to Tomlin, several other undrafted players are making moves. Donovan Edwards, a standout running back from Michigan, has signed with the New York Jets. Edwards has been a key player in Michigan's resurgence over the past few seasons, and his signing adds depth to the Jets' backfield.
Another notable signing is Cobee Bryant, a cornerback from Kansas, who has inked a deal with the Atlanta Falcons. Bryant was a first-team All-Big 12 selection for three consecutive seasons, showcasing his skills and making him a sought-after addition for the Falcons.
Seth McLaughlin, the 2024 Rimington Award winner for the nation's best center, has confirmed his signing with the Cincinnati Bengals. McLaughlin was also a first-team All-Big Ten selection, and his signing is expected to bolster the Bengals' offensive line as they prepare for the upcoming season.
Shilo Sanders, who went undrafted despite being the brother of highly touted quarterback Shedeur Sanders, is also joining the Buccaneers. The Colorado safety's signing adds to Tampa Bay's defensive backfield and gives him a chance to make an impact early in his career.
Meanwhile, D.J. Uiagalelei, a former five-star recruit who played for Clemson, Oregon State, and Florida State, is signing with the Los Angeles Chargers. Uiagalelei's journey through college football has been closely watched, and now he will be competing in a quarterback room that includes Taylor Heinicke and Trey Lance, the latter of whom was the No. 3 overall pick in the 2021 draft.
The Jets are making headlines again, as they have also signed Brady Cook, the Missouri quarterback who threw for over 2,500 yards in each of the past three seasons, amassing a total of 49 touchdown passes. Cook's impressive college stats could translate well to the NFL, and his addition could provide valuable competition for the Jets' quarterback lineup.
Xavier Restrepo, another notable undrafted free agent, is signing with the Tennessee Titans. Restrepo is expected to provide additional receiving options for the Titans, who are looking to maximize the potential of their No. 1 overall pick, Cam Ward.
Jordan Clark, a Notre Dame product and son of ESPN analyst and former Steelers safety Ryan Clark, is also signing with the Jets. After transferring to Notre Dame, Jordan Clark had a solid season, recording 37 tackles and an interception as the Fighting Irish made a deep run to the College Football Playoff championship game.
As teams finalize their rosters, the landscape of the NFL is shifting with these undrafted signings. The opportunity for players to prove themselves in rookie minicamps could lead to surprising careers in the league. The 2025 NFL Draft may have concluded, but the excitement for undrafted free agents is just beginning. Stay tuned as these players embark on their journeys to make a name for themselves in the NFL.
