Can Rams undrafted free agents snag 53-man spots?

May 2, 2026

Rams undrafted free agents: Who could make the 53-man roster this summer?

Rams undrafted free agents lead a deep rookie class that promises to shake up camp. Fans should be excited because this group mixes athleticism, size, and proven production. Los Angeles added 18 undrafted free agents after drafting five rookies. As a result, the roster sits at 86 players with room to add up to four more before the 90-man limit. That means competition will stay fierce, but opportunity knocks for smart, versatile players.

Several UDFAs already stand out in early testing and film. For example, Dean Connors sprinted a reported 4.45-second 40-yard dash, and Wesley Bailey measured 6-foot-5 and 265 pounds with a 9.83 RAS. Also, Nick Andersen brings consistent tackling production from Wake Forest. With the Rams likely to have two edge spots open and multiple expiring contracts, these rookies could earn real looks.

This introduction previews who might crack the 53-man roster this summer. Therefore, expect surprises at training camp, and keep an eye on high-upside names who play special teams and multiple positions.

Hopeful Rams undrafted free agents training

Rams undrafted free agents: early roster projections

The Rams signed 18 undrafted free agents this spring, and a handful could realistically compete for a 53-man spot. The team added 23 rookies overall, placing the roster at 86 players and leaving room to add up to four more before hitting the 90-man limit. Because of that crowded roster, versatility and special teams value will decide most UDFA battles.

Rookies who bring measurable traits

  • Dean Connors — 5-foot-11, 206 pounds; ran a reported 4.45-second 40-yard dash. His speed stands out, and he profiles as a gadget player and special teams contributor. However, the offense may lack room for him as a primary running back.
  • Wesley Bailey — 6-foot-5, 265 pounds with a 9.83 Relative Athletic Score. His RAS ranks 40th out of 2,239 defensive ends measured since 1987, which signals rare athletic upside for an edge prospect.
  • Nick Andersen — productive tackler at Wake Forest. He averaged 114 tackles, four tackles for loss, four pass deflections, and an interception across his last two seasons. That production suggests immediate special teams readiness and positional instincts.

Each of these players must show consistency in camp. Therefore, coaches will reward those who can play multiple roles. As a result, look for UDFAs who can slide into coverage units, return packages, or provide rotational snaps.

Roster depth and positional openings

Edge depth looks like the clearest path for a UDFA to earn a spot. The Rams may have up to two openings on the edge, and Wesley Bailey’s size and athleticism put him on that short list. Meanwhile, linebacker and secondary depth could open opportunities because the team has multiple expiring contracts and is still shaping its cornerback room. For more on how the draft and UDFAs shape depth, see this article.

Offense appears crowded. The Rams drafted Tim Keenan III and added three new tight ends, which signals heavy packages in 2026. Consequently, the running back room offers limited runway for rookies like Dean Connors. For context on OL versatility and UDFA fits, check this article.

Final read: who to watch in camp

Expect special teams stars and multi position players to rise. Because of roster limits and quality veterans, only a few UDFAs will make the final cut. Still, with two likely edge spots and nearly two dozen expiring contracts, several undrafted players have real chances to stick. For a look at positional predictions and cornerback depth, see this article.

PlayerPositionHeightWeight40 yard dashNotable skills and college performance
Dean ConnorsRunning back5 ft 11 in206 pounds4.45 secondsElite straight line speed, special teams upside, gadget player potential
Wesley BaileyDefensive end6 ft 5 in265 poundsN A9.83 Relative Athletic Score, ranked 40th of 2,239 defensive ends since 1987, high athletic upside
Nick AndersenLinebackerN AN AN AAveraged 114 tackles, four tackles for loss, four pass deflections, and one interception across his last two seasons at Wake Forest
Jalen Logan ReddingUndrafted free agentN AN AN APositional depth candidate who will compete on special teams
Jaxson MoiUndrafted free agentN AN AN AYoung prospect with upside; needs reps in camp to show consistency
Payton ZdroikUndrafted free agentN AN AN ADepth player who can compete for practice squad and special teams snaps
Keagan TrostUndrafted free agentN AN AN AVersatile lineman candidate; fits scheme driven by versatility
Austin BlaskeUndrafted free agentN AN AN ADevelopmental prospect with room to grow in camp

Notes

Because details for several UDFAs are limited, N A denotes information not publicly reported in the provided facts. Therefore, use this table as a quick reference. Fans should watch training camp for updates, because special teams play and cross training will decide who claims roster spots.

Training camp outlook for Rams undrafted free agents and rookies

Training camp will be loud, fast, and competitive. Fans should expect daily battles for limited roster spots. Coaches will value versatility, effort, and special teams skill. As one observer put it, “It won’t be easy for any rookie… but plenty of promise.” Therefore, young players who can contribute in more than one role will gain traction quickly.

Rookie quarterbacks and the backup battle

  • Ty Simpson and Matt Caldwell will lead the rookie QB group in camp. Both must show command of the playbook. However, veteran depth still matters because the Rams keep experienced backups. As a result, a UDFA quarterback would need standout traits to displace a veteran.
  • Practice reps will determine who moves faster. Also, preseason snaps will shape coaches’ trust levels. Consequently, look for accuracy, decision making, and running ability to separate candidates.

Edge rushers and the path to the 53-man roster

Edge looks like the clearest route for a UDFA to stick. The Rams could have up to two openings on the edge, so competition will be fierce. Wesley Bailey’s size and 9.83 RAS give him a real chance. Meanwhile, other undrafted pass rushers must show bend, pursuit, and special teams value.

Strategic considerations and roster limits

  • The roster sits at 86 players after rookie additions, with room to add up to four before the 90-man limit. That means evaluations start immediately.
  • Offense appears crowded. The team added Tim Keenan III and three tight ends, which signals heavy packages in 2026. Therefore, running backs face a steeper climb.
  • Nearly two dozen expiring contracts create mid term openings. Consequently, some UDFAs may earn practice squad roles before landing on the active roster.

What to watch in camp

  • Special teams snaps early in camp. Players who make tackles on kickoff units will catch coaches’ eyes.
  • Two way ability. Players who perform on offense or defense and on special teams gain value.
  • Consistency every day. Coaches reward reliability across drills and meetings.

Overall, training camp will produce surprises. Still, optimism is fair. Several Rams undrafted free agents and rookies have the traits to fight for roster spots. Fans should watch early practices and preseason games closely, because that is where stories begin.

Conclusion

The excitement around Rams undrafted free agents is real and justified. Fans should feel optimistic because this roster class mixes speed, size, and proven college production. Dean Connors, Wesley Bailey, and Nick Andersen are prime examples of upside that can translate at the next level. Therefore, expect training camp battles to produce surprise standouts who earn roles on special teams and rotational snaps.

Rams News LLC will track every twist and turn through camp and preseason. For complete coverage, visit Rams News and follow updates on Twitter at Zach Gatsby’s Twitter. Meanwhile, we will highlight the rookies and UDFAs who rise in practice, film study, and preseason games. As a result, readers get a front row seat to the stories that matter.

Stay tuned. The next few weeks will test young players and reveal who can crack the 53-man roster. Ultimately, optimism fits this group because a few undrafted names have the traits to stick. Keep watching and keep cheering as the Rams shape their roster for the 2026 season.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Which Rams undrafted free agents have the best shot at the 53-man roster?

Watch Dean Connors, Wesley Bailey, and Nick Andersen first. Connors offers 4.45 speed and gadget versatility. Bailey brings size and a 9.83 RAS that ranks among the top edge athletes. Andersen provides proven tackling production from Wake Forest. Therefore, these three represent the clearest upside among the UDFA group.

How many undrafted free agents did the Rams sign and what is the roster situation?

The Rams signed 18 undrafted free agents. The roster sits at 86 after rookie additions. As a result, the team can add up to four more before hitting 90. Also, the club could have two open spots on the edge and nearly two dozen expiring contracts.

What will coaches value in camp when evaluating UDFAs?

Coaches will prioritize versatility and special teams value. Consistency in practice and coverage instincts matter. Moreover, players who can help on kickoff and punt units will rise quickly.

Can a UDFA realistically beat out a veteran for a roster spot?

Yes, but the UDFA must offer clear everyday value. Typically, special teams performance or unique positional versatility creates that gap. Consequently, expect some UDFAs to start on the practice squad and move up.

When will we know which UDFAs made the team?

Official cuts come at roster deadlines in August. However, preseason games and early camp reports will reveal who trends upward. Therefore, stay tuned to training camp coverage and preseason action for the best clues.