Collegiate Free Agency

Just because the Draft is over (and we're sad to see it go), don't assume that your team is done adding players to the offseason roster. Next on the schedule is collegiate free agency, which is when undrafted rookies get courted by NFL teams to come try out for a spot on the roster.

For instance, fourth place Heisman Trophy finalist (distant fourth, but fourth nonetheless) was passed up 256 times last weekend, and went undrafted. Word is that he's working on a deal with the Cleveland Browns to join their mini-camp. And two years ago, Heisman Trophy winner Troy Smith (Ohio State QB) didn't get selected in the Draft, but signed a free agent deal with the Baltimore Ravens. The man who beat Smith in the national championship game, Florida QB Chris Leak, also failed to get picked, and signed with the Bears in free agency.

This year, lots of teams and players are trying each other out already. The Broncos have been busy since Sunday afternoon, signing 15 collegiate free agents. John Fox and the Carolina Panthers have inked 20 rookie free agents to come to camp. And don't write any of these guys off. Plenty of impact players in the NFL were previously undrafted rookie free agents: two-time MVP Kurt Warner, reigning Defensive Player of the Year James Harrison, former Offensive Player of the Year Priest Holmes, perennial Pro Bowler Jason Peters, Willie Parker, Gary Brackett, Antonio Gates, etc.

So don't stop following your teams' and their moves. You might be surprised to find out that some of those undrafted rookies make the final 53 man roster, and some might even wind up being stars.