What's Happening?
Several former Georgia Tech football players have signed with NFL teams as undrafted free agents following the 2026 NFL Draft. Among them, quarterback Haynes King has joined the Carolina Panthers, where he will compete for a roster spot against established
quarterbacks like Bryce Young and Kenny Pickett. Running back Jamal Haynes has signed with the Cincinnati Bengals, where he will vie for a position in a competitive backfield. Wide receiver Malik Rutherford remains in Atlanta with the Falcons, aiming to secure a spot in a relatively weak receiving corps. Eric Rivers and Jy Gilmore have both joined the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, with Rivers facing stiff competition in a strong receiving group, while Gilmore has a better chance due to the team's needs at cornerback. Ahmari Harvey has signed with the Denver Broncos, where he will have the opportunity to learn from top cornerbacks and potentially secure a spot in a defense-heavy roster.
Why It's Important?
The signing of these undrafted free agents highlights the ongoing opportunities and challenges faced by college athletes transitioning to professional football. For Georgia Tech, these signings reflect the program's ability to develop players capable of reaching the NFL, even if not through the draft. For the players, securing a spot on an NFL roster can significantly impact their careers, offering financial stability and professional growth. The competition they face underscores the high level of talent and the limited opportunities available in the NFL, where even talented players must prove themselves against seasoned veterans and other promising newcomers.
What's Next?
The next steps for these players involve participating in training camps and preseason games, where they must demonstrate their skills and adaptability to secure a place on the final roster. Their performance in these settings will be crucial, as NFL teams finalize their lineups before the regular season. Success in these early stages could lead to a career in the NFL, while failure to make the roster could mean seeking opportunities in other leagues or roles within the sport.
