by Every year, the NFL Draft happens. Teams pick the best college players to join their teams.
But what happens to the players who don’t get picked?
Some go home disappointed. But others? They fight harder than ever!
Being “undrafted” means no team chose you in the draft. It’s like being the last kid picked for a team at recess.
But here’s the amazing part: Some of the greatest NFL players ever were undrafted!
Legends like Kurt Warner, Tony Romo, and Wes Welker all went undrafted. Then they showed the world what they could do.
Today’s undrafted stars are following in those footsteps. They’re grinding, proving doubters wrong, and becoming superstars!
If you love learning about real NFL stories, stats, and players who beat the odds — visit FieldBulls.com, your go-to professional NFL blog for everything about American football.
The 10 Best Undrafted Players in the NFL
In this article, we’re counting down the 10 Best Undrafted Players in the NFL playing right now.
These players prove that your beginning doesn’t determine your ending. Let’s meet these incredible athletes!
Quick Comparison: Top 10 Undrafted Players in the NFL (2025)
Here’s a snapshot of the best undrafted players currently in the NFL:
| Rank | Player | Position | Current Team | Undrafted Year | Key Achievements |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 | Justin Tucker | Kicker | Free Agent (Suspended) | 2012 | NFL Record 66-yard FG, 7× Pro Bowler |
| 9 | Allen Lazard | Wide Receiver | New York Jets | 2018 | 530 yards, 6 TDs (2024) |
| 8 | J.C. Jackson | Cornerback | Free Agent | 2018 | 9 interceptions (2021), shutdown corner |
| 7 | Frankie Luvu | Linebacker | Washington Commanders | 2018 | 8 sacks, All-Pro 2024 |
| 6 | Charvarius Ward | Cornerback | Indianapolis Colts | 2018 | 23 pass breakups, 5 INTs (2023) |
| 5 | Adam Thielen | Wide Receiver | Carolina Panthers | 2013 | 1,000+ yards, 103 catches (2023) |
| 4 | Raheem Mostert | Running Back | Las Vegas Raiders | 2015 | 1,012 rush yards, 18 TDs (2023) |
| 3 | Jaylen Warren | Running Back | Pittsburgh Steelers | 2022 | 1,100+ total yards (2023) |
| 2 | Jakobi Meyers | Wide Receiver | Las Vegas Raiders | 2019 | 1,027 yards, zero drops (2024) |
| 1 | Austin Ekeler | Running Back | Washington Commanders | 2017 | 73 career TDs, 9,000+ total yards |
The 10 Best Undrafted Players in the NFL (Current)
#10: Justin Tucker – Kicker (Free Agent)
Justin Tucker wasn’t picked in the 2012 NFL Draft.
But he became the greatest kicker in NFL history!
Tucker played for the Baltimore Ravens for 13 seasons. He won a Super Bowl and made the Pro Bowl seven times!
His Amazing Records:
- Kicked the longest field goal ever: 66 yards (that’s like kicking from one end zone almost to the other!)
- Has the best career field goal percentage: 89.1% (he rarely misses!)
- 5-time First-Team All-Pro
- Super Bowl champion
What Makes Him Special:
Tucker’s leg is so powerful and accurate that defenders just watch in amazement. He can kick from distances other kickers can’t even try!
Current Status:
As of 2025, Tucker is a free agent serving a 10-game suspension. Despite this setback, his legacy as the GOAT kicker is secure.
💡 Think of it this way: Tucker is like a basketball player who never misses free throws — except he’s kicking a football 50+ yards!
#9: Allen Lazard – Wide Receiver (New York Jets)
Allen Lazard went undrafted in 2018 from Iowa State.
Most teams thought he was too slow. They were wrong!
Lazard is 6’5″ and uses every inch of his height to catch passes over defenders.
His Journey:
- Started with the Green Bay Packers
- Became Aaron Rodgers’ favorite target
- Followed Rodgers to the New York Jets in 2024
2024 Season Stats:
- 37 catches
- 530 yards
- Career-high 6 touchdowns
Why He’s Successful:
Lazard isn’t the fastest, but he’s smart. He knows how to get open and wins jump balls with his size.
Playing next to Garrett Wilson, Lazard gives the Jets a powerful receiving duo!
💡 Example: Lazard is like the tall kid in gym class who always wins at basketball because he can reach higher than everyone else!
#8: J.C. Jackson – Cornerback (Free Agent)
J.C. Jackson went undrafted from Maryland in 2018.
Teams made a huge mistake!
Jackson became one of the NFL’s best cornerbacks with amazing instincts.
Career Highlights:
- Led the entire NFL with 9 interceptions in 2021
- Multiple defensive touchdowns (he scores on defense!)
- Shutdown corner reputation
- Started with the New England Patriots
What Happened:
Jackson had some injury troubles and was released in 2025. But his talent is undeniable.
Any team looking to improve its defense should sign him immediately!
Why He’s Great:
Jackson reads quarterbacks like a book. He knows where they’ll throw before they do!
💡 Think about it: Jackson is like a mind reader who always knows what the other team is planning!
#7: Frankie Luvu – Linebacker (Washington Commanders)
Frankie Luvu wasn’t drafted in 2018 from Washington State.
But this linebacker from American Samoa proved he belongs!
Recent Dominance:
- 2023 with Carolina: 125 tackles and 5.5 sacks
- 2024 with Washington: 99 tackles and 8 sacks
- Earned Second-Team All-Pro honors in 2024
What Makes Him Special:
Luvu can do everything! He stops the run, rushes the quarterback, and covers receivers.
He’s not just strong — he’s smart and fast too!
His Impact:
Luvu brings energy to every play. He chases down runners, blows up blockers, and hits with perfect timing.
💡 Example: Luvu is like the kid who’s good at every position in soccer — defense, offense, everything!
#6: Charvarius Ward – Cornerback (Indianapolis Colts)
Charvarius Ward went from junior college to the NFL the hard way — undrafted and overlooked.
But he fought his way to the top!
Career Journey:
- Started with the Kansas City Chiefs
- Won Super Bowl 54 championship
- Became a star with the San Francisco 49ers
- Signed a big contract with the Indianapolis Colts in 2025
2023 Breakout Season:
- 5 interceptions
- Led the entire NFL with 23 pass breakups
- 68 tackles
- Made his first Pro Bowl!
Big Money Contract:
The Colts paid Ward $60 million for 3 years in 2025. That shows how valuable he is!
Why He’s Elite:
Ward shuts down the best receivers. When the ball comes his way, he’s knocking it down or catching it!
💡 Think of it: Ward is like a shield protecting his team — nothing gets past him!
#5: Adam Thielen – Wide Receiver (Carolina Panthers)
Adam Thielen’s story is the ultimate underdog tale!
He went to a tiny Division II school (Minnesota State) and wasn’t drafted in 2013.
But Thielen became a superstar!
Career Achievements:
- Two-time Pro Bowler
- Second-Team All-Pro
- NFL record: 8 consecutive 100-yard games
- Over 8,000 career receiving yards
2023 Season at Age 32:
- Over 1,000 receiving yards
- 103 catches
- Quarterback Bryce Young’s most reliable target
Why He’s Still Great:
Thielen isn’t fast, but he’s precise. He finds the soft spots in defenses and makes tough catches.
He’s a veteran leader helping young players learn!
💡 Example: Thielen is like the wise player who uses experience and smarts instead of just speed!
#4: Raheem Mostert – Running Back (Las Vegas Raiders)
Raheem Mostert went undrafted from Purdue in 2015.
He bounced between teams, working and grinding. Now he’s a respected NFL veteran!
Career Highlights:
- 4,003 career rushing yards
- 36 rushing touchdowns
- Super Bowl 77-yard touchdown run
- All-Pro kick returner (2024)
Amazing 2023 Season at Age 31:
- 1,012 rushing yards
- Led the entire NFL with 18 rushing touchdowns
- 21 total touchdowns
- Made his first Pro Bowl!
What Makes Him Dangerous:
Mostert runs like a track star! Once he sees an opening, he hits it with blazing speed.
In 2025 with the Raiders, he’s a backup but still a big-play threat!
💡 Think about it: Mostert is like that player in a race who waits for the perfect moment, then ZOOMS past everyone!
#3: Jaylen Warren – Running Back (Pittsburgh Steelers)
Jaylen Warren wasn’t drafted from Oklahoma State in 2022.
The Steelers took a chance on him. Best decision ever!
Quick Rise to Stardom:
- 2023 breakout: 784 rushing yards, 370 receiving yards
- Backed up Najee Harris but still dominated
- Became a fan favorite for tough runs
2025 Season:
With Harris gone, Warren is now Pittsburgh’s starting running back!
At 5’9″, Warren packs a punch. He runs with power, catches passes, and never goes down easy.
Why Fans Love Him:
Warren plays with relentless energy. He turns short plays into big gains and always fights for extra yards!
💡 Example: Warren is like the small kid who hits harder than the big kids — size doesn’t matter when you have heart!
#2: Jakobi Meyers – Wide Receiver (Las Vegas Raiders)
Jakobi Meyers went undrafted from NC State in 2019.
Now he’s the Las Vegas Raiders’ #1 receiver!
Career Progression:
- Started with the New England Patriots
- Became a reliable target
- Now the WR1 for the Raiders
2024 Career Year:
- 87 catches (career high)
- 1,027 yards (career high)
- Zero drops all season!
- Most reliable receiver on the team
What Makes Him Great:
Meyers isn’t flashy, but he’s perfect at his job. His routes are sharp, his hands are sticky, and he’s always open!
He’s like a technician — precise, consistent, and trustworthy.
💡 Think of it: Meyers is like a friend who’s always there when you need them — totally dependable!
#1: Austin Ekeler – Running Back (Washington Commanders)
Austin Ekeler is the #1 best undrafted player in the NFL right now!
He went to tiny Western Colorado University (Division II) and wasn’t drafted in 2017.
Everyone said he was too small. He proved them all wrong!
Incredible Career Stats:
- 4,722 rushing yards
- 4,250 receiving yards
- 73 career touchdowns
- Over 9,000 total yards
Touchdown King:
- Led the entire NFL with 20 touchdowns in 2021
- Led again with 17 touchdowns in 2022
- Fantasy football legend!
Recent Success:
- 2024: Joined Washington, earned Second-Team All-Pro as kick returner
- 2025: Team captain and starting running back at age 30
Why He’s #1:
Ekeler can do everything! He runs, catches, returns kicks, and scores from anywhere on the field.
He’s one of the most productive running backs of the last decade — drafted or undrafted!
💡 Example: Ekeler is like a Swiss Army knife — useful for everything and always getting the job done!
These undrafted stars prove that college success doesn’t always guarantee NFL draft picks.
Some of the greatest college teams in history produced players who went undrafted, while small school players became NFL legends.
The college-to-NFL pipeline is unpredictable and fascinating! Want to learn about the most dominant college programs ever?
Check out our comprehensive guide: Top 25 Greatest College Football Teams of All Time — from the 1971 Nebraska Cornhuskers to the 2022 Georgia Bulldogs, discover the college dynasties that shaped football history!
What do These Players Teach Us?
The Best Undrafted Players in the NFL all share important qualities:
Never Give Up
- Being passed over doesn’t mean you’re not good enough
- Keep working when others quit
- Believe in yourself even when no one else does
Work Harder Than Everyone
- Undrafted players know they have to prove themselves
- They practice harder, study more, and want it more
- Talent is important, but effort is more important
Find Your Opportunity
- Every player on this list found a team willing to give them a chance
- They made the most of that chance
- One opportunity is all you need if you’re ready
Be a Team Player
- These players help their teams win
- They don’t complain about being undrafted
- They just play football and contribute
Prove the Doubters Wrong
- Use rejection as motivation
- Let people’s doubts fuel your fire
- Success is the best response to being overlooked
Undrafted Success Stories by Position
Let’s break down these amazing players by position:
Top Undrafted Running Backs:
- Austin Ekeler (Washington) – 73 career TDs
- Jaylen Warren (Pittsburgh) – Rising star
- Raheem Mostert (Las Vegas) – Speed demon
Top Undrafted Wide Receivers:
- Jakobi Meyers (Las Vegas) – Zero drops in 2024
- Adam Thielen (Carolina) – 8,000+ career yards
- Allen Lazard (NY Jets) – Red zone threat
Top Undrafted Defensive Players:
- Charvarius Ward (Indianapolis) – Shutdown corner
- J.C. Jackson (Free Agent) – Ball hawk
- Frankie Luvu (Washington) – Do-it-all linebacker
Special Teams:
- Justin Tucker (Free Agent) – Greatest kicker ever
While these undrafted offensive stars dominate headlines, defense wins championships in the NFL.
Some of the greatest defensive players in history also went undrafted, proving that talent evaluation is an inexact science.
The NFL has witnessed legendary defensive units that completely shut down high-powered offenses and changed games.
Want to learn about the most dominant defensive teams in football history?
Dive into our detailed breakdown: Top 20 Best NFL Defenses of All Time — from the 1985 Bears’ “46 Defense” to the 2000 Ravens’ “Purple Crush,” discover the defenses that became legendary!
How Do Undrafted Players Make It?
You might wonder: If they’re not drafted, how do they join the NFL?
Here’s how it works:
Undrafted Free Agency:
- After the draft ends, teams can sign any player who wasn’t picked
- These players become “undrafted free agents”
- They sign contracts (usually smaller than drafted players)
Training Camp:
- Undrafted players attend training camp
- They compete for roster spots
- They have to prove they belong
Practice Squad:
- Some start on the practice squad (like a backup team)
- They practice with the team but don’t play in games
- It’s a chance to learn and improve
Make the Team:
- If they play well enough, they make the 53-man roster
- Then they get to play in real NFL games!
Prove Yourself:
- Every play matters for undrafted players
- One great game can change everything
- Hard work eventually gets noticed
Famous Undrafted Players from the Past
Today’s undrafted stars follow in legendary footsteps:
- Kurt Warner – Hall of Fame quarterback who stocked shelves at a grocery store before becoming a Super Bowl champion!
- Tony Romo – Became the Dallas Cowboys’ franchise quarterback and is now a famous TV announcer.
- Wes Welker – One of the best slot receivers ever, with over 9,000 career receiving yards.
- James Harrison – Defensive Player of the Year who became one of the most feared linebackers in NFL history.
- Warren Moon – Hall of Fame quarterback who proved that undrafted players can be legends.
These players showed that the draft doesn’t determine your destiny!
While these undrafted players made their mark, football history is also filled with legendary quarterbacks who dominated the game from day one.
From Kurt Warner’s undrafted success to Tom Brady being picked in the 6th round, quarterbacks have proven that draft position doesn’t guarantee greatness.
Want to see which signal-callers became the absolute best? Explore our complete ranking: Top 10 Greatest NFL Quarterbacks of All Time — from Montana to Mahomes, discover the QBs who defined excellence!
Why Being Undrafted Can Be Good?
Believe it or not, going undrafted has some advantages:
Chip on Your Shoulder:
- Undrafted players have something to prove
- They play angrily and are motivated
- Rejection fuels their fire
Choose Your Team:
- Drafted players go where they’re picked
- Undrafted players can choose which team to sign with
- They can pick the best fit for their skills
No Expectations:
- Drafted players have pressure to perform immediately
- Undrafted players can develop without the spotlight
- Less pressure can help them grow
Hunger to Succeed:
- They know teams didn’t want them
- Every practice, every play matters
- They appreciate the opportunity more
The greatest defenders in football history know what it takes to dominate.
While these undrafted offensive stars shine bright, defense wins championships! Want to learn about the most dominant defensive units ever?
Check out our detailed breakdown: Top 20 Best NFL Defenses of All Time — from the 1985 Bears to the 2000 Ravens, discover the defenses that made offenses look helpless!
Current Undrafted Stars to Watch
Beyond our top 10, here are other undrafted players making noise in 2025:
Offensive Players:
- Chris Godwin (WR) – Tampa Bay star receiver
- Phillip Lindsay (RB) – Former 1,000-yard rusher
- Kendrick Bourne (WR) – Explosive playmaker
Defensive Players:
- Malcolm Butler (CB) – Super Bowl hero
- Foye Oluokun (LB) – Tackling machine
- David Onyemata (DT) – Run-stuffer
Special Teams:
- Jake Elliott (K) – Clutch kicker
- Bradley Pinion (P) – Big-leg punter
The undrafted pipeline keeps producing stars!
While undrafted players fight for roster spots, some NFL franchises have been building winning traditions for over a century.
Teams like the Chicago Bears, Green Bay Packers, and Arizona Cardinals have been discovering hidden gems and developing talent since the 1920s.
These historic organizations know how to spot players others miss. Curious about which NFL teams have the longest and richest histories?
What NFL Teams Learn from Undrafted Players?
Smart NFL teams know undrafted players are valuable:
Hidden Gems:
- The draft isn’t perfect
- Great players get overlooked
- Undrafted free agency finds diamonds in the rough
Work Ethic Matters:
- Undrafted players often work harder
- They bring energy and intensity
- They set the tone in practice
Depth Players:
- Not every player can be a star
- Undrafted players fill important backup roles
- They provide quality depth
Team Culture:
- Players who overcome adversity inspire teammates
- Undrafted success stories motivate everyone
- They show that opportunity is earned
Many of these incredible players came from college programs with rich histories.
Speaking of football traditions, some teams have been building legacies for over a century!
Curious about which NFL franchises have stood the test of time?
Discover our guide: Top 10 Oldest Teams in the NFL — Learn which teams have been playing since the 1920s and how they built their championship traditions!
How to Support Undrafted Players?
Fans can support undrafted players too:
Follow Their Journey:
- Watch their games
- Celebrate their successes
- Share their stories on social media
Buy Their Jerseys:
- Show your support by wearing their number
- Undrafted players love fan support
- It motivates them to keep going
Learn Their Stories:
- Every undrafted player has an amazing journey
- Understanding their path makes you appreciate them more
- Their stories inspire us all
Believe in Second Chances:
- Everyone deserves an opportunity
- Support players who work hard
- Remember: talent can be found anywhere
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Q1. What does “undrafted” mean in the NFL?
Undrafted means a player wasn’t selected by any team during the NFL Draft. After the draft, these players can sign with any team as undrafted free agents.
- Q2. Can undrafted players become stars?
Absolutely! Players like Kurt Warner, Tony Romo, and Austin Ekeler all went undrafted and went on to become NFL superstars. Hard work and opportunity matter more than draft status.
- Q3. How do undrafted players make NFL teams?
After the draft, undrafted players sign contracts with teams, attend training camp, and compete for roster spots. Some start on practice squads before making the active roster.
- Q4. Who is the best undrafted player of all time?
Kurt Warner is often regarded as one of the best. He went from stocking grocery shelves to winning Super Bowl MVP and making the Hall of Fame!
- Q5. Do undrafted players get paid less?
Initially, yes. Their first contracts are usually smaller. But if they prove themselves, they can earn big contracts like drafted players!
- Q6. Which position has the most undrafted success stories?
Running backs and wide receivers have many undrafted success stories, but great players have emerged at every position — even Hall of Fame quarterbacks!
- Q7. Why do good players go undrafted?
Teams make mistakes! Some players are from small colleges, some have injury concerns, some are considered “too small” or “too slow.” The draft isn’t perfect.
- Q8. Can undrafted players win awards?
Yes! Justin Tucker has won multiple All-Pro honors. Many undrafted players have made Pro Bowls and even won MVP awards (like Kurt Warner).
Conclusion: Stars Are Made, Not Born
The 10 Best Undrafted Players in the NFL prove something powerful:
Your beginning doesn’t determine your ending!
Being passed over in the draft could have ended their dreams. Instead, it made them stronger.
Austin Ekeler went from a tiny college to an NFL touchdown machine. Justin Tucker became the greatest kicker ever. Adam Thielen went from Division II to the Pro Bowl.
These players didn’t let rejection define them. They let it refine them!
Every season, new undrafted players rise and inspire fans. They show us that:
- Hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard
- Believing in yourself matters more than others believing in you
- Opportunity comes to those who stay ready
- Success is the best revenge against doubt
In football, stars are made by hard work, not by draft position.
These are the Best Undrafted Players in the NFL who continue to shine on and off the field.
They prove that champions aren’t chosen on draft day — they’re built through dedication, perseverance, and an unshakable belief in themselves.
For more stories like this, rankings, and latest updates, visit FieldBulls.com — your professional NFL blog for everything about American football.
Remember: The next time someone tells you that you can’t do something, think of these players. Then go prove them wrong!
Go underdogs! 🏈
These undrafted heroes prove that in football and in life, it’s not about how you start — it’s about how hard you work and how much you believe in yourself!
