Best Undrafted Free Agents of 2014

Once the 256th pick was announced, I went to NFL.com to see which players went undrafted. Lo and behold, I find a slew of talented prospects that didn't hear their name called. These players usually don't get drafted due to an injury concern or off-field issues. Then there are the players who are worth a late round pick, but were viewed by coaching staffs as someone who won't get drafted and therefore wouldn't be worth using up a draft pick on.

Christian Jones, ILB, Florida St.- Jones started at linebacker for the Seminoles before being moved to defensive end as a senior in 2013. He will likely be tried at linebacker in Chicago, considering the lack of depth at the position. He might be more effective as an outside linebacker in a 3-4 defense where he can get after the quarterback.

Shayne Skov, ILB, Stanford- I don't understand how this guy went undrafted. He may not have good straight-line speed and or man-coverage skills, but he's aggressive, smart, instinctive, and a team leader. He signed with the 49ers and reunited with his former head coach Jim Harbaugh. Skov could benefit from his relationship with Harbaugh, but the team has solid depth at linebacker and he'll have to stand out to make that squad. Even if he doesn't, there's no doubt he's going to be on an NFL roster in 2014.

Jackson Jeffcoat, DE, Texas- I'm shocked Jeffcoat wasn't drafted. Sure, his durability is a concern and he doesn't have the bulk teams want in a defensive end, but his talent is undeniable. I thought he warranted a fifth round pick, but ultimately signed with the Seahawks as a free agent. Hopefully the coaching and training staff make him hit the weight room hard his rookie season and add more weight to his frame. He should contribute as a situational pass-rusher if he separates himself from the competition.

Antonio Richardson, OT, Tennessee- At 6'6" and 336-pounds, the man nicknamed "Tiny" is anything but. According to reports from several media outlets, the reason Richardson went undrafted was because the medical part of the pre-draft process discovered he had a micro fracture knee injury that might cause him to sit out his rookie season. He signed with the Vikings and could have a chance to compete for a job as a backup right tackle and/or guard this season or next season, depending on whether or not he's shelved on the injured reserve/physically unable to perform list.

Marcus Roberson, CB, Florida- Roberson struggled with injuries and had some off-field issues during his time at Florida, but he's a very talented player and I was surprised no team thought he was worth drafting. He signed with the Rams and considering their depth at cornerback is a bit thin, he could have a shot at cracking the final roster but will certainly have to prove himself on special teams.

Anthony Johnson, DT, LSU- Inconsistent. That word seems to be attached to Anthony Johnson. He shows great ability one game and then looks like crap in another. His college teammate and fellow defensive tackle Ego Ferguson was selected by the Bears in the second round. Johnson signed with Dolphins and has a tough hill to climb to make the final roster.

Craig Loston, SS, LSU- Another starter on the vaunted LSU Tigers' defense who I thought was a lock to get drafted. Loston isn't strong in coverage, but he's a very aggressive and hardnosed football player. The Jaguars signed him and he has a good shot of making the roster due to the lack of talent the team currently holds at the position.

Dion Bailey, SS, USC- Bailey is hurt by his lack of speed and tweener traits. He played both safety and linebacker at USC, but his skills don't translate to a specific position in the pros. He lacks the speed to play safety and isn't big enough to play linebacker. That doesn't mean he can't play, because this guy can play. He signed with the Seahawks and knowing Pete Carroll's eye for talent in defensive backs, I bet he likes Bailey's skill set. There's not much talent behind Pro Bowlers Earl Thomas and Kam Chancellor on the depth chart, giving Bailey a prime opportunity to make the team.