The NFL Draft is a treasure trove of talent, but it's not the only path to the big leagues. Undrafted players often find their way into the spotlight, proving that talent can come in all shapes and sizes. This year's crop of undrafted players is no exception, with a mix of athletic freaks, versatile athletes, and competitive powerhouses. Here's a closer look at some of the top undrafted players from this year's draft, and why they might just be the next big thing in the NFL.
Nadame Tucker: The Electric Pass Rusher
Nadame Tucker, an EDGE player from Western Michigan, is a force to be reckoned with. With 14.5 sacks in 2025, he tied for the most in the FBS and earned MAC Defensive Player of the Year honors. Tucker's speed and power make him a dynamic pass rusher, and at 6-foot-2, 247 pounds, he's not afraid to get physical. While he may not be the biggest player, his electric playmaking ability is hard to ignore. The Chargers, who signed him as an undrafted free agent, might just have found a hidden gem.
Zxavian Harris: The 6-Foot-8, 330-Pound Wonder
Zxavian Harris, a defensive tackle from Ole Miss, is a unique find. Standing at 6-foot-8 and weighing 330 pounds, he's one of the tallest and heaviest defensive tackles we've seen. Harris blocked six kicks during his collegiate career and finished sixth in the FBS with 27 run stops. His size and strength make him a dominant run defender, but his off-field issues, including multiple arrests, might have kept him from being drafted. The team that signs him will have to navigate these concerns, but his physical attributes are hard to ignore.
Michael Trigg: The Athletic Pass-Catcher
Michael Trigg, a tight end from Baylor, might not be a mauler in the blocking game, but he's an athletic pass-catcher. At 240 pounds, he's not the biggest, but his ability to catch passes and make plays in the passing game is impressive. Trigg's athleticism and receiving skills make him a valuable asset, and his comparison to Chigoziem Okonkwo, who had a successful season with the Titans, is fitting. The Dallas Cowboys, who signed him, might just have found a hidden gem in the undrafted pool.
Jeff Caldwell: The Athletic Freak
Jeff Caldwell, a wide receiver from Cincinnati, is a true athlete. With a 4.31 40-yard dash, 1.48 10-yard split, 42-inch vertical, and 11-foot-2 broad jump, he's a freak of nature. Caldwell's RAS (Relative Athletic Score) is a perfect 10.00 out of 10.00, ranking No. 2 out of 3,926 wide receivers. However, his production in his lone season with Cincinnati (32 catches, 478 yards, 6 touchdowns) might have raised some concerns. The Kansas City Chiefs, who signed him, will have to decide if his athleticism is enough to make up for his lack of production.
Isaiah World: The Versatile Offensive Lineman
Isaiah World, an offensive tackle from Oregon, is a versatile player. He started at left tackle for four years, with the first three at Nevada. World's ability to play both tackle and guard positions makes him a valuable asset. His performance as a Second Team All-Big Ten player last year is a testament to his skills. The Chargers, who signed him, might just have found a versatile player who can contribute in multiple roles.
Deontae Lawson: The Instinctive Linebacker
Deontae Lawson, a linebacker from Alabama, returned from an ACL injury and had a less-than-stellar season with a 16.3% missed tackle rate. However, his instincts and coverage skills are praised. Lawson's high IQ and ability to make plays in coverage make him a valuable linebacker. The Philadelphia Eagles, who signed him, might just have found a player who can contribute in multiple aspects of the game.
Logan Fano: The Brotherly Bond
Logan Fano, an EDGE player from Utah, is an intriguing signing. He's the brother of Spencer Fano, the No. 9 overall pick in the draft. Logan Fano's size (6-foot-5) and performance (44 tackles, 7.5 tackles for loss, 4.5 sacks) make him a force to be reckoned with. The Cleveland Browns, who signed him, might just have found a hidden gem in the undrafted pool.
Diego Pounds: The Versatile Tackle
Diego Pounds, a left tackle from Ole Miss, is another versatile player. He allowed zero sacks on 583 pass-blocking snaps and earned Third Team All-SEC honors. Pounds' ability to play both tackle and guard positions makes him a valuable asset. The Baltimore Ravens, who signed him, might just have found a player who can contribute in multiple roles.
Haynes King: The Experienced Quarterback
Haynes King, a quarterback from Georgia Tech, is an experienced player. He led the Yellow Jackets in rushing with 953 yards and 15 touchdowns, earning ACC Player of the Year honors. King's experience and playmaking ability make him a fun weapon. However, his age (25) and the question of his NFL-throwing ability might be concerns for scouts. The Carolina Panthers, who signed him, might just have found a player who can contribute in a specific role.
Diego Pavia: The Heisman Finalist
Diego Pavia, a quarterback from Vanderbilt, is a famous undrafted player this year. He's the first Heisman Trophy finalist to go undrafted since 2014. Pavia led the SEC in completion percentage (70.6%), passing touchdowns (29), and yards per attempt (9.4). His 4,402 total yards led all Power Four players. After helping Vanderbilt to a 10-3 record in 2025, Pavia's name has been in the headlines. However, his 5-foot-10 stature might be a concern for NFL scouts. The team that signs him will have to decide if his elite competition and playmaking ability are enough to make up for his size.
These undrafted players prove that talent can come in all shapes and sizes. While some might have raised concerns, their athletic abilities, versatility, and competitive spirits make them valuable assets. The teams that signed them might just have found hidden gems, and the NFL might be about to witness some exciting new stars emerge.
