Spotting undrafted free agents who have a chance to make a roster is difficult enough. Finding undrafted free agents who have the potential to become spot starters or even impact players is a different ball game. Undrafted rookies face an uphill battle once signed by an NFL franchise. Their reps are limited in favor of returning veterans and players as well as the team’s actual draft picks.

Every year coaches give their spiel about how the best players will win the job but we’re all smart enough to know that due to the NFL’s Collective Bargaining Agreement, (CBA) rules and regulations such as time constraints and the type of drills allowed offer limited opportunities to evaluate players on the back end of the roster. The lack of on-field time that players get to develop their skill continues to shrink and has a profound effect on who sticks around and who ultimately gets cut.

With that said, there are players in the 2025 NFL Draft who should have been draft picks but managed to fall entirely out of the draft for one reason or another. Below I’ll highlight a few players who are well-positioned to make their team and eventually make an impact, despite not hearing their name called on draft day.

Quarterback

Cam Miller, Las Vegas Raiders

After Geno Smith and Aidan O’Connell, there’s not much talent at the quarterback position for the Raiders. If Miller can quickly grasp the playbook, he could become QB2 in Las Vegas before the midpoint of the 2025 season.

He offers mobility that the other Raiders quarterbacks lack. Notably, he amassed 3,251 passing yards and 33 touchdowns while rushing for 631 yards and 12 touchdowns.

Where Miller needs to improve: Using his legs to keep plays alive while keeping his eyes downfield, as well as being quicker with his decision-making.

Max Brosmer, Minnesota Vikings

Brosmer has a tough path ahead to secure a spot with a talented Vikings roster. With J.J. McCarthy as the starter and Sam Howell ahead of him, it’s crucial for Brosmer to make a strong impression.

While he may not be the best runner, his arm talent has been praised, and he possesses the skills needed to make difficult throws.

Running Back

Marcus Yarns, New Orleans Saints

The Saints backfield features veterans but Yarns has the potential to carve out his role. His pass-catching ability may allow him to eventually take over from Alvin Kamara.

Yarns is quick, evidenced by his 4.45 40-yard dash time during the NFL Combine, making him a threat all over the field.

Lan Larison, New England Patriots

With a skill set similar to Christian McCaffrey, Larison aims to secure his place in a crowded backfield alongside Antonio Gibson and Rhamondre Stevenson.

Wide Receiver

Xavier Restrepo, Tennessee Titans

Restrepo, with a solid connection with Cam Ward, is on track to become Tennessee’s starting slot receiver.

J.J. Jones, Jacksonville Jaguars

With a growing reputation among the Jaguars scouting staff, Jones is a player to watch as he could become a key receiver opposite Brian Thomas Jr.

Tight End

Jake Brinningstool, Kansas City Chiefs

Brinningstool may be in a prime position to succeed Travis Kelce as Kansas City’s premier tight end, boasting impressive college numbers despite going undrafted.