Undrafted free agent signings will be a hot topic next week, maybe, as teams make a run at some of the talent left out of the draft back in April. The St. Louis Rams have found some useful role players via undrafted free agency before, and figure to do so again this year, especially with camp rosters being set at 90 players rather than the usual 80, thanks to the lockout.
Pro Football Weekly posted their list of the highest ranked undrafted prospects from draft expert Nolan Nawrocki. You should be familiar with a few names on the list, including LB Mark Herzlich and RB Derrick Locke. A few other names on that list could also be of benefit to the Rams.
More players and more links to more players and more info...more, more, more after the jump.
From NN's list:
The Rams spoke with Central Michigan LB Nick Bellore in the offseason. He wouldn't really have a role other than a special teamer and a depth guy for the middle and strongside. The Rams always bring in a few linebackers looking for guys with potential. Herzlich is a really intriguing guy based on his past history, but might be more appealing to teams looking for a 3-4 OLB.
Two offensive lineman are on Nawrocki's list: UConn OG Zach Hurd and Oregon State C Alex Linnenkohl. The knock on Hurd has to do with his instincts, but he's got potential as a phone booth run blocker. Linnenkohl possess the brains you want in a center, but some question his short arms and explosion.
Virginia Tech RB Darren Evans is bigger and faster than Keith Toston, while playing a similar style of game. He even has a similar story, solid guy that got buried on the depth chart after dealing with an injury. He does block well, but Toston might have him beat as a receiver.
More UDFA talk:
- Brick Top looked at four names last month, including Notre Dame DT Ian Williams who is also on NN's list.
- Here's a list heavy on running backs and interior linemen.
- And, finally, Miami RB Graig Cooper could be the steal of the bunch. Cooper tore his ACL in 2009. He played last year, but not at 100 percent. Draftnik Rog Rang labels him as one of the best UDFAs out there.