Ranking the 15 Best Undrafted NFL Players of All Time

In the NFL, the draft is often viewed as the most direct path to success, with top prospects carefully scouted, analyzed, and selected to shape the future of the league. However, history has shown that the road to greatness isn’t limited to draft-day selections.

Some of the most legendary players in NFL history never heard their names called on draft night, yet they forged remarkable careers through sheer determination, relentless work ethic, and undeniable talent. From record-breaking quarterbacks to defensive juggernauts, these undrafted stars not only earned their place in the league but left a lasting legacy. Here’s a look at 15 of the greatest undrafted players in NFL history who overcame the odds and made an unforgettable impact on the game.

Dick “Night Train” Lane – Cornerback

Lane was working in an aircraft factory when he decided to try out for the Los Angeles Rams in 1952. Not only did he make the team, but he also set an NFL record with 14 interceptions in his rookie season, a record that still stands. Lane’s aggressive style and physical play redefined the cornerback position.

Warren Moon – Quarterback

Despite a stellar college career, Moon went undrafted in 1978, likely due to biases against Black quarterbacks at the time. He began his career in the CFL, where he won five Grey Cups before joining the NFL. Moon went on to pass for over 49,000 yards in the NFL and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2006.

James Harrison – Linebacker

After being undrafted in 2002, Harrison was cut multiple times before finally finding his place with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Known for his incredible work ethic and ferocious play, Harrison became a two-time Super Bowl champion, five-time Pro Bowler, and the 2008 NFL Defensive Player of the Year.

Adam Vinatieri – Kicker

The NFL’s all-time leading scorer, Vinatieri’s clutch kicks helped the New England Patriots win three Super Bowls in the early 2000s. He also added another ring with the Indianapolis Colts. Undrafted in 1996, Vinatieri’s longevity and consistency made him one of the greatest kickers of all time.

John Randle – Defensive Tackle

At just 6’1” and 287 pounds, Randle was considered undersized for his position. Undrafted in 1990, he signed with the Minnesota Vikings and became a dominant pass rusher, recording 137.5 career sacks. Randle was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2010.

Tony Romo – Quarterback

Romo went undrafted in 2003 but found a home with the Dallas Cowboys. Despite criticism early in his career, Romo became a four-time Pro Bowler and threw for over 34,000 yards and 248 touchdowns. Post-retirement, he’s become a beloved NFL analyst.

Arian Foster – Running Back

Foster’s rise to stardom began after being undrafted in 2009. Signed by the Houston Texans, he led the NFL in rushing yards in 2010 and earned four Pro Bowl selections. Foster’s vision, patience, and versatility made him a fan favorite.

Rod Smith – Wide Receiver

After going undrafted in 1994, Smith signed with the Denver Broncos and became one of the team’s most reliable targets. He won two Super Bowls with the Broncos and remains the franchise’s all-time leader in receptions, receiving yards, and touchdowns.

London Fletcher – Linebacker

Fletcher may not have been the flashiest player, but he was one of the most consistent. Undrafted in 1998, Fletcher played 16 seasons and never missed a game, finishing his career with over 2,000 tackles and earning a Super Bowl ring with the Rams.

Jason Peters – Offensive Tackle

Originally a tight end, Peters transitioned to offensive tackle after going undrafted in 2004. He became one of the best linemen of his era, earning nine Pro Bowl selections and a Super Bowl ring with the Philadelphia Eagles.

Priest Holmes – Running Back

Holmes began his career as an undrafted free agent with the Baltimore Ravens, where he won a Super Bowl. He later joined the Kansas City Chiefs and became one of the league’s top running backs, leading the NFL in rushing touchdowns twice.

Cliff Harris – Safety

Harris went undrafted in 1970 but quickly became a key player for the Dallas Cowboys’ dominant defense. He helped the team win two Super Bowls and earned six Pro Bowl selections during his career.

Antonio Gates – Tight End

Gates didn’t even play college football; he was a basketball player at Kent State. Despite this, the San Diego Chargers saw potential and signed him as an undrafted free agent in 2003. Gates went on to become one of the greatest tight ends in NFL history, with over 11,000 receiving yards and 116 touchdowns.

Doug Baldwin – Wide Receiver

Signed by the Seattle Seahawks as an undrafted free agent in 2011, Baldwin became a reliable and clutch receiver. He helped the Seahawks win Super Bowl XLVIII and finished his career with over 6,500 receiving yards and 49 touchdowns.

Kurt Warner – Quarterback

Warner’s journey from stocking shelves at a grocery store to becoming a Super Bowl MVP and two-time NFL MVP is one of the most inspiring stories in sports. After being undrafted in 1994, Warner eventually found his way to the St. Louis Rams, where he led the “Greatest Show on Turf” to a Super Bowl XXXIV victory. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2017.

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