Monday, July 25, 2011

Undrafted Free Agents Getting Ready for the Call

With the NFL season just days away from finally beginning, one group of former Mountaineers are collectivly breathing a sigh of relief. Typically undrafted free agents would be deep into OTA's, and spending or saving their signing bonuses. Sure, the bonuses are much smaller than those of first rounders, but at least its financial security. While drafted players have essentially been supported by their respective agents and waiting for camps to open, the undrafted players have been out in the real world, trying to make a buck or two, waiting for football to start. And now the NFL is back, and a whole bunch of movin' and shakin' is about to go down.

There's reports that have undrafted free agent signings beginning as early as today. This means Noel Devine, Sidney Glover, Scooter Berry, and Jock Sanders will be waiting intently by the phone.

Devine is an outstanding talent. He was a lock to be drafted, but injuries hampered his production in his Senior season. Devine will find it tough to be an every-down back in the NFL, but his quickness and pure speed can make him valuable in the right system. He has good hands too, and could be used as a return man. Durability will be his biggest issue in the NFL.
Possible Locations: Cleveland, St Louis, Carolina

Sanders will be more limited in the NFL due to his size, and the position he plays. At just 5'6", Sanders isn't the prototypical receiver size, but the dude has talent. He could be a dynamic return man, and may find himself in the backfield. If given the chance Sanders could prove his value.
Possible Locations: New York Giants, Pittsburgh, San Fransisco

Glover was a productive safety during his time in Morgantown. He has good size, fair speed, and good hands. Glover showed he could help against the run, and also had eight tackles for loss. His technique probably needs work, but could find a job in special teams, while maturing.
Possible Locations: Buffalo, Indianapolis, Denver

Berry converted from fullback to the defensive line, and prospered under Jeff Casteel. He's very good against the run, and has the athleticism to get after the quarterback. Could use a few more pounds to truly be a solid DT.
Possible Locations: Buffalo, Oakland, Washington

Best of luck to all of these players, and the former Mountaineers that were already drafted. Yes, it looks like the NFL is just about back.