Every year, once the NFL Draft ends, a second wave begins. It’s quieter, but often just as impactful. Undrafted players are where teams find hidden value, developmental talent, and occasionally, future stars. And after the 2026 Draft, several signings immediately stood out as potential steals. Here are five of the best:
MORE: Who is the early favorite number 1 overall in 2027 NFL Draft?
The Green Bay Packers may have landed one of the most explosive undrafted receivers available in J. Michael Sturdivant. A product of the UCLA Bruins, California Golden Bears, and Florida Gators, Sturdivant brings elite measurables:
He was widely viewed as a top UDFA wideout, and Green Bay’s track record of developing receivers makes this an ideal pairing.
The Los Angeles Chargers added serious value with the signing of Nadame Tucker. Out of Western Michigan, Tucker was ranked as high as No. 158 overall by CBS Sports, making his undrafted status a bit of a surprise. This is the kind of move contenders make:
Tucker could push for rotational snaps sooner rather than later.
The Dallas Cowboys continue to invest in offensive versatility with the addition of Michael Trigg. Coming out of Baylor, Trigg has long been viewed as a high-upside, athletic tight end with mismatch potential. For Dallas, this is about development:
If he puts it together, this could quietly become one of the better signings on this list.
The Denver Broncos may have found a hidden gem in Taurean York. A standout at Texas A&M Aggies, York was one of the most productive linebackers available, but slipped due to size concerns. Still, his strengths are undeniable:
This is exactly the type of player who outplays his draft status.
Yes, the Green Bay Packers show up again, and for good reason. Kyron Drones, out of Virginia Tech, brings one thing teams covet: upside. With a 9.58 RAS, Drones is one of the most athletic quarterbacks in this class. He’s raw, but intriguing:
In the right system, this is the kind of signing that can pay off in a big way.
UDFA success stories aren’t rare; they’re expected. Every year, players overlooked in the draft find their way onto rosters and into meaningful roles. The difference comes down to fit, opportunity, and development.
These five players have all three. The draft may be over, but roster building isn’t. And if history tells us anything, at least one of these names will matter a lot more by the end of the season.Because in the NFL, being undrafted doesn’t mean being overlooked forever.
— Enjoy free coverage of the top news & trending stories on The Big Lead —