What is happening with Alabama football’s undrafted free agents?
Every year, a handful of Alabama football players hear their names called in the NFL Draft. Unfortunately, not every player can be drafted. Those who don’t look to sign with any team as an undrafted free agent. They’ll work out in camp before teams make cuts, and they have a chance to either make the official roster or be signed to a practice squad.
Going undrafted isn’t always a bad thing. It gives players a chance to control their own destiny and pick the best situation for them to succeed. Some players get guaranteed money upon signing, and we’ve seen players like Alabama football’s Levi Wallace go from a UDFA to a millionaire.
Alabama had six prospects go undrafted. Here is the latest with each of them as they also look to begin their NFL careers.
Josh Jobe, CB, Philadelphia Eagles
Jobe going undrafted was surprising, and his injury history likely played a part. However, he will look to add depth to the Eagles. Philly has made moves to help the secondary, but they could still use rotational players to add to the roster. Jobe feels like a practice squad player for this team.
Chris Allen, EDGE, Denver Broncos
Allen made $180 thousand in guarantees after signing with the Broncos. His injury history kept him from being drafted, but perhaps the guaranteed money is Denver’s way of showing that they are committed to getting him healthy. Allen is a menace when he is on the field, so he has a great chance of making the roster once he is fully ready to play.
Slade Bolden, WR, Baltimore Ravens
The Ravens traded away their top receiver in the first round, and they did not draft a wide receiver at all. This team doesn’t win with elite receivers, but they still need someone to fill the gap left by Brown. Bolden won’t be that guy, but he has a chance to contribute to the overall team on special teams and in the traditional offense.
LaBryan Ray, IDL, New England Patriots
Ray also dealt with injuries in college, but he will get to play alongside Christian Barmore, his former teammate with Alabama football, if he makes the final roster.
Chris Owens, IOL, Pittsburgh Steelers
The Steelers need to add depth to the interior of the offensive line. Owens played right tackle last year, but he was much better on the inside. If he moves back to center, he has a chance to make it to a practice squad.
Daniel Wright, S, Unsigned
Wright is the only player yet to find a team. He will be fighting for a spot on a practice squad, but he has a chance to make if if he finds the right home. If the patience is a sign for teams’ interest in him, then Wright will either have to go to the CFL, USFL, XFL or pursue a career off the field.
Wright could become a coach, or he could choose a career completely away from football. We’ll have to wait and see what his next move is.