Undrafted Free Agents You Need In Dynasty

Chew highlights UDFA's that could make an impact on your dynasty roster.

Dynasty managers would be wise to not lose focus after the 257th pick is made because after the NFL Draft is a tsunami of undrafted free agents. Regardless of the reason that these players fell so far, there is still a chance for them to not only make an NFL roster but provide meaningful points for YOUR fantasy team. Here are a few names to look out for late in your dynasty rookie drafts and throughout training camp.

BRADY COOK (QB) - New York Jets

Cook is an athletic quarterback that has valuable experience as a starter in the SEC. What makes him a suitable backup with the ability to start is his track record for sound decision making. Taking risks is certainly part of being a game-changing quarterback but that does not have to be Cook’s hallmark. As a mobile quarterback, Cook can move the ball down the field making the short and intermediate throws from both within the pocket and on the move.

Ahead of Cook on the Jets’ depth chart, currently, is Justin Fields, Tyrod Taylor, Jordan Travis and Adrian Martinez. I believe that with Cook’s skillset he can rise to the QB-3 spot as I did like Travis coming out of college but he was taken by the previous regime. And as we have learned in recent years the quarterbacks further down the depth chart could be thrust into meaningful snaps.

DEION HANKINS (RB) - Chicago Bears

The Bears added to the running back room with a seventh round pick (Kyle Monangai) and with an undrafted signing of Deion Hankins. The El Paso native runs much like the Juggernaut (X-Men reference). If Hankins is given a few yards to gain steam his 6-foot, nearly 230-pound frame bounces off tackles and keeps churning out yards. He has a enough wiggle as a one-cut back and some herky-jerky spin moves reminiscent of Eno Benjamin.

The Bears’ running back room currently includes: D’Andre Swift, Roschon Johnson, Kyle Monangai, and Travis Homer. I have little doubt a veteran could join this group but with a new coaching staff at the helm no one’s job is safe. And does Hankins take the starting job? Not likely. But could he garner some touches and be a red zone hammer? Yup!

TRU EDWARDS (WR) - Los Angeles Rams

My favorite UDFA on this list in one of the most intriguing situations. Edwards is not a one trick pony, as he moves like a smaller, quicker receiver despite his 6-foot, 3-inch, 200+ pound frame. As a taller receiver he is able to track the ball incredibly well, whether it is making a disrespectful catch on the outside or snagging a ball in traffic over the middle of the field. Regardless of where Edwards is catching the ball, he also has a good feel for where the defense is and can get upfield in a hurry.

After Puka Nacua, Davante Adams, Tutu Atwell and Jordan Whittington there is a lot of uncertainty on the Rams’ depth chart at receiver. So much like how Whittington had a productive preseason in 2024, Edwards has a real chance to make the roster and make an impact in the preseason to stick around. While draft capital is indicative of a team’s level of investment/confidence in a player, I do trust that if Edwards makes the best of his opportunities that the Rams will reward him accordingly.

KOLE TAYLOR (TE) - Cincinnati Bengals

I am a sucker for a 6-foot, 7-inch tight end sleeper (see Colby Parkinson and Charlie Kolar). After starting at LSU, Taylor transferred to WVU and saw an increased opportunity as a pass catcher. The passing attack at West Virginia was not a ferocious one with the leading receiver pulling in 51 receptions; however, Taylor slotted in as second on the team in receptions (43) and yards (448) in 2024.

The Bengals current tight end room incudes: Mike Gesicki, Drew Sample, Erick All Jr., and Tanner Hudson. We say it every year that we are waiting for the Bengals to get a top-tier tight end and they refuse to make a significant investment in the position. Conversely, Cincinnati backed up the Brinks truck for two of their star receivers in Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins. But for me tight end is my most-streamed position in fantasy and when there is a tower of a tight end I consider his possible value as a red zone weapon in a red hot offense.

So you made it this long and hopefully you enjoyed it (that’s what she said). If you wouldn’t mind sharing this in your group message with your fellow dynasty degenerates I would greatly appreciate it!