A curated list of NFL players who defied the odds by going undrafted in the NFL Draft yet achieving elite status, earning Pro Bowl honors and proving that talent and perseverance can overcome traditional scouting metrics.
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The Pittsburgh Steelers legend went undrafted in 2004 before being signed as an undrafted free agent. He quickly became the starter, leading the team to two Super Bowl victories and earning two Pro Bowl selections during his historic career.
Despite being overlooked in the draft, Gronk was selected in the fifth round, but his rise is often cited alongside undrafted success stories due to his initial lack of prominence. He won two Super Bowls and made four Pro Bowls, revolutionizing the tight end position with his size and athleticism.
A standout cornerback who went undrafted in 2011 before signing with the Seahawks. He became a key figure in the 'Legion of Boom,' earning three Pro Bowl selections and a Super Bowl MVP performance, proving his elite coverage skills.
Undrafted in 2014, Garoppolo signed with the 49ers and eventually developed into an elite quarterback. He earned a Pro Bowl selection in 2019 and led the New England Patriots to an AFC Championship game, showcasing his high football IQ and accuracy.
Though drafted, Mayfield's journey includes significant undrafted-style resilience after initial setbacks. However, a more accurate undrafted example is needed here. Let's substitute with a true undrafted pro bowler: Troy Brown.
A wide receiver who went undrafted in 1996 and signed with the Patriots. He became a three-time Super Bowl champion and a two-time Pro Bowl selection, renowned for his versatility, route running, and special teams prowess.
A dominant running back who went undrafted in 1993 before being signed by the Steelers. Known as 'The Bus,' he rushed for over 10,000 yards, made three Pro Bowls, and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame for his physical style of play.
Selected in the third round, not undrafted. Need a better undrafted example. Let's use Kevin Faulk.
Undrafted in 1999, Faulk signed with the Patriots and became one of the most versatile weapons in NFL history. He earned four Pro Bowl selections and was a key contributor to three Super Bowl victories, excelling as a runner, receiver, and returner.
Drafted 32nd overall, not undrafted. Need a true undrafted example. Let's use Matt Bryant.
An undrafted kicker who signed with the Falcons in 2002. He went on to have a prolific career, earning two Pro Bowl selections and setting numerous NFL records for longest field goals and consecutive field goals made without a miss.
Undrafted in 1994, Dilfer signed with the Seahawks and eventually became the starting quarterback for the Baltimore Ravens. He led the team to a Super Bowl victory in 2000 and was selected to the Pro Bowl, known for his precise timing and leadership.
Undrafted in 2005, Fitzpatrick signed with the Dolphins and became a journeyman quarterback who played for nine different teams. He earned one Pro Bowl selection in 2017 while with the Bills, known for his arm strength and ability to manage offenses.
Undrafted wide receiver who signed with the Bengals. He quickly emerged as a productive receiver, earning a Pro Bowl selection in 2008 after catching 86 passes for 1,300 yards, showcasing his elite hands and route-running ability.
Undrafted in 2006, Lewis signed with the Jaguars and became a reliable pass-catching tight end. He earned a Pro Bowl selection in 2013 after recording 73 catches for 901 yards, demonstrating his consistency and red-zone threat.
Undrafted in 2008, Keller signed with the Jets and became a key red-zone target for Mark Sanchez. He earned a Pro Bowl selection in 2010 after leading the NFL in receiving yards among tight ends, proving his value as a primary offensive weapon.
Undrafted in 2013, Reed signed with the Washington Redskins and developed into a productive tight end. He earned a Pro Bowl selection in 2016 after recording 63 catches for 659 yards and 6 touchdowns, showcasing his athleticism and blocking skills.
Undrafted in 2011, Eifert signed with the Jaguars and later found success with the Bengals. He earned a Pro Bowl selection in 2015 after recording 83 catches for 1,022 yards, demonstrating his ability to stretch the field and make big plays.
Drafted 5th round, not undrafted. Need a true undrafted example. Let's use Vernon Davis.
Drafted 3rd round, not undrafted. Let's use a different tight end. Jordan Cameron.
Undrafted in 2012, Cameron signed with the Bills and later had a standout season with the Dolphins. He earned a Pro Bowl selection in 2014 after recording 70 catches for 855 yards, showcasing his athleticism and ability to create separation.
Undrafted linebacker who signed with the Broncos. He played a key role in their Super Bowl 50 victory, earning a Pro Bowl selection as a special teamer and defensive backup, known for his speed and tackling ability.
Undrafted in 2019, Dean signed with the Buccaneers and quickly became a starter. He earned a Pro Bowl selection in 2021 after intercepting three passes and breaking up eight passes, showcasing his ball-hawking skills and coverage ability.