Every year, many players go undrafted in the NFL Draft, sign as undrafted free agents (UDFAs), and strive for a spot on NFL rosters. Even though UDFAs are highly important, their capabilities are often overlooked. Once the draft ends and rookie minicamp begins, anything can happen with how rookies fit into a potential NFL roster.
Every year, between 15 and 20 undrafted free agents make NFL rosters. This year should be no different, as more than a few players picked after the draft have a chance, if not an inside track, to make a 53-man roster and make an impact in their rookie season.
What Percentage of Undrafted Free Agents Actually Make NFL Rosters?
Around 20% of UDFAs make an NFL team’s opening roster and can also be positioned on injured reserve. When practice-squad players are included, around 40% of UDFAs stay connected to a team. If the practice squad players are incorporated into the team, then around 40% of UDFAs stay connected to a team till the matches begin.
Despite the odds getting tougher, undrafted players have been having a real influence on matches from 2019 to 2023. They comprise more than 12% of all NFL starters.
Furthermore, teams are also allocating more to these players, disbursing around $15 million on guaranteed salaries in 2022, which includes UDFAs earning over $200,000 in guarantees.
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Even though the road is difficult, UDFAs continue to build successful careers despite the hardships they face in the league.
Stay tuned in to College Sports Network, where we will have you covered on every UDFA and where they end up.
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