Hogs Haven
Which returning UDFAs will capitalize on their second chance?
“He needs a year on the practice squad to develop before having a chance at a roster spot.”
How many times have we read this line or one like it when discussing undrafted free agents? It is common practice to say undrafted free agents should be stashed on the practice squad to give them a chance to develop. Rightly so, as most don’t have the skill set to compete at the NFL level right away. Many times, undrafted players that don’t make the final roster toil away in camps and offseason activities without ever seeing the light of day, but occasionally some break through to carve out roles on NFL teams. Examples include currently rostered Commanders Andrew Wylie, Trent Scott, and, of course, All-Pros Frankie Luvu and Jeremy Reaves.
Eleven UDFAs were signed by Washington after the 2024 draft. Today, I will offer a brief refresher on the four who remain that are entering camp for a second chance at a roster spot.
Michael Wiley, RB (5’10”, 210 lbs.): Last year, Wiley profiled as third-down back and possible backup for Austin Ekeler. The former Arizona running back opened some eyes in preseason with 17 attempts for 67 yards and 2 touchdowns, while adding six catches for 37 yards. Some fans, and even a writer or two, had him as a possible inclusion to the final roster in August. Ultimately, he was waived and re-signed to the practice squad.
When Ekeler went out during the season, it was Chris Rodriguez, not Wiley, who was called up to the roster. At this point, he would seem to be a long shot for a roster spot, especially with the addition of Croskey-Merritt, but Bill profiles with below average third-down ability as he enters his rookie season in the NFL. Wiley could compete for McNichols’ spot as a do-it-all game day backup and special teamer.
Norell Pollard DT (6/1”, 283 lbs.): It is easy to forget Norell Pollard, as the former Hokie secured just one tackle in preseason before being placed on injured reserve. Yet another undersized, athletic, defensive lineman in the Dan Quinn/Joe Whitt mold, he played every game in college over a five year span (61), starting in 48 of them. Pollard’s claim to notoriety was a pass rush win rate that surpassed Johnny Newton’s. He has already developed an arsenal of pass rush moves, so hopefully he added strength and weight this off-season.
Sam Hartman, QB (6’1”, 209 lbs.): Hartman’s rookie preseason was also forgettable beyond some mop up work in the first preseason game. He missed most of camp with a shoulder injury, but was waived without an injury designation at final cuts. Re-signed to the practice squad, he made a brief appearance on the roster as the emergency third quarterback during Marcus Mariota’s four games on IR. Upon Mariota’s return, he was once again waived and re-signed to the practice squad. Average arm strength and athleticism will always limit his...
