GENERAL KNOWLEDGE

What is the NFL undrafted free agent signing process?

Last updated:

The NFL undrafted free agent signing process allows teams to sign college players who were not selected in the NFL Draft immediately after the draft ends. Teams compete to sign these players by offering contracts, typically starting with rookie minimum deals.

Continue in Reels Listen and swipe through more answers in General Knowledge
When it happensImmediately after the NFL Draft ends, usually on draft weekend in April
Who can signCollege players who were not drafted, including international players
Contract typeUsually rookie minimum contracts, typically worth around $780,000 for the 2024 season
Team advantageTeams draft order is reversed, so last-place teams get first pick of undrafted free agents
Signing periodTeams have a limited window on draft weekend to contact and sign players
Notable outcomeMany undrafted players have become successful NFL stars, including Kurt Warner and Antonio Brown

What Happens After the Draft

Once the NFL Draft concludes, the draft order reverses for undrafted free agent signings. This means the team with the worst record from the previous season gets the first opportunity to sign undrafted players. Teams then take turns signing available players during draft weekend. This process happens very quickly, with teams using scouts and coaches to contact players and offer contracts immediately.

The Signing Process

When a team wants to sign an undrafted free agent, they contact the player or his agent and offer a contract. Most undrafted signings include a rookie minimum salary, which is set by the NFL collective bargaining agreement. Players can sign with any team that offers them a contract during the open signing period. Some players may receive slightly higher contracts or signing bonuses if multiple teams are competing for them.

Training Camp and Roster Spots

Undrafted free agents who sign contracts are invited to their team's training camp in the summer. They must compete with other players to earn a spot on the 53-man regular season roster. Many undrafted players do not make the final roster but may be signed to practice squad contracts instead. The practice squad allows players to continue training and developing while being available if needed during the season.

Why Players Sign as Undrafted Free Agents

Players choose to sign with specific teams for various reasons, including coaching staff reputation, team needs at their position, and location. Some players prefer to sign with teams that have better chances of developing their skills. Agents help negotiate the best possible contracts and opportunities for undrafted players. Even without being drafted, signing as an undrafted free agent gives players a legitimate path to playing professional football.

Success Stories

Many successful NFL players started as undrafted free agents. Hall of Famer Kurt Warner, Super Bowl winner Antonio Brown, and Pro Bowler Wes Welker all signed as undrafted free agents and went on to have outstanding careers. These examples show that not being drafted does not prevent a player from becoming a star in the NFL. Hard work and opportunity matter just as much as draft position.

Sources

  1. NFL.com (NFL.com)
  2. ESPN.com (ESPN.com)
  3. ProFootballReference.com (ProFootballReference.com)