Jaguars training camp: 1-on-1 interview with DT Israel Antwine

It’s very rare in the NFL for undrafted rookie free agents to not only make the final roster but become key play-makers. With all the information and data scouts and front-office personnel have at their disposal these days, it’s uncommon to see a guy slip through the cracks of the draft and become a contributor at the NFL level. Having said that, the Jacksonville Jaguars have a history of finding diamonds in the rough when it comes to signing undrafted rookie free agents.

For proof, look no further than running back James Robinson, an excellent example of the Jaguars front office’s ability to identify and develop under-the-radar rookie free agents.

Following the 2020 NFL Draft, Robinson found himself in the pool of hundreds of undrafted rookies looking for an NFL home. Thankfully, he chose to sign with Jacksonville and quickly became one of the most consistent and talented running backs in the league. His 1,414 yards from scrimmage in 2020 were the most by an undrafted rookie in league history.

The Jaguars have a solid track record of identifying undrafted free agents

Players such as Allen Hurns, Jarrod Wilson, Tre Herndon, Keelan Cole, and Corey Grant were all signed as undrafted free agents and went on to not only make the final roster but become fan favorites along the way. And that was possible because the Jags were willing to take a flier on every single one of them.

These players all tend to have at least one thing in common — they simply want to prove everyone wrong and get the chance to show why they should’ve been drafted, and that’s precisely defensive lineman Israel Antwine’s goal ahead of the 2022 season.