Which undrafted Rams rookies who should make the roster?
As a fan, you know cuts sting, especially for undrafted Rams rookies who should make the roster.
They fight through OTAs and camp because every rep matters to earn a 53-man spot.
However, the odds stack against undrafted free agents facing draft pedigree and roster depth.
Still, this piece will spotlight several gritty names — Dan Villari, Eddie Walls III, Dean Connors, Payton Zdroik and Jordan Waters — who impressed in college, showed traits like versatility, pass rush, contact balance, and 13-personnel skills, and who therefore deserve real consideration when the Rams trim to 53 in training camp 2026 because coaches value production, depth, special teams play, and the occasional hidden gem from undrafted free agents who can steal a roster spot or at least a key practice squad role.
Read on as we argue why these undrafted talents should make the roster and how they might beat the odds.
Spotlight on Undrafted Rams Rookies
As the Rams prepare to solidify their 53-man roster, several undrafted rookies have fans’ attention. Deserving more than a glance, Dan Villari, Eddie Walls III, Dean Connors, Payton Zdroik, and Jordan Waters showcase the potential to shake up the final lineup.
Dan Villari: From QB to TE
Dan Villari’s transition from a quarterback to a tight end illustrates his athletic versatility. His ability to run, catch, pass, and block provides unique value to the Rams, especially in 13-personnel packages often utilized by the team.
- Position: Tight End
- Skills: Catching, blocking, run-and-pass options
Eddie Walls III: Defensive Dynamo
At linebacker, Eddie Walls III is a powerhouse. He amassed 92 tackles over his last two college seasons, adding 17.5 tackles for loss and 12.0 sacks. Walls III’s knack for performance underlines why he deserves a chance on the roster.
- Total tackles: 92 tackles
- Tackles for loss: 17.5
- Quarterback sacks: 12.0
Dean Connors: A Dynamic Dual-Tool
Standing 5-foot-11 and tipping the scales at 206 pounds, Dean Connors combines strength with agility. His college credentials support his claim as a reliable running back option, complementing the existing depth in the Rams’ lineup.
Payton Zdroik: Measuring Up
Payton Zdroik’s remarkable athleticism is no secret. With a Relative Athletic Score (RAS) of 9.26, Zdroik ranks as one of the top defensive tackles historically, showcasing skills that could significantly benefit the Rams.
- RAS Score: 9.26 out of 10.00
- Rank: 169 out of 2270 DTs since 1987
Jordan Waters: The Bigger Back
Les Snead, the Rams’ general manager, appreciates what a bigger running back brings to the table, and Jordan Waters fits the bill at 6-foot-0 and 225 pounds. His physical presence adds a powerful dynamic, bolstering the team’s running game.
Each of these undrafted Rams rookies offers the team a fresh, competitive edge, proving that despite not being drafted, their college achievements and unique attributes make them indispensable. For fans hopeful of seeing their favorites on the field this season, the anticipation is palpable as training camp unfolds.
Undrafted Rams rookies who should make the roster: Quick comparison
This table compares size, college production, and standout skills so fans can weigh roster value quickly. Special teams and scheme fit often decide final spots.
| Player | Position | Size | Key College Stats | Standout Skill |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dan Villari | Tight end converted from QB | — | Versatile skillset; run catch pass and block | Multiuse 13 personnel weapon and blocker |
| Eddie Walls III | Linebacker | — | 92 tackles; 17.5 tackles for loss; 12.0 sacks | Edge pass rusher and reliable run stopper |
| Dean Connors | Running back | 5 foot 11, 206 lbs | Physical runner with pass protection chops and special teams upside | Power and burst in tight spaces |
| Payton Zdroik | Defensive tackle | — | RAS 9.26 out of 10; ranked 169 of 2270 DTs since 1987 | Elite interior athleticism and quickness |
| Jordan Waters | Running back | 6 foot 0, 225 lbs | Bigger back profile; short yardage and power production | Between the tackles runner and special teams contributor |
Takeaway: Versatility and special teams value define this group — Villari and Zdroik offer scheme flexibility while Walls, Connors, and Waters provide proven production and role-specific traits.
Keywords: undrafted free agents, UDFA, Rams rookies, training camp, special teams, 13 personnel, RAS, interior explosiveness
Roster challenges and team strategy for rookies
The Rams enter training camp 2026 with a compact draft class and a crowded roster. Because Los Angeles drafted only five players, undrafted free agents arrive with more pressure and more opportunity. However, competition remains brutal across offense, defense, and special teams.
Les Snead still values adding at least one bigger running back each year. As a result, Jordan Waters looks like a direct target to fit that blueprint. Therefore Waters could earn a roster spot as a short-yardage option, a goal-line hammer, or a special teams ace.
Scheme matters. The Rams’ use of 13-personnel packages and the occasional eight tight ends concept changes how coaches view roster slots. For example, a converted quarterback like Dan Villari brings rare flexibility. Because he can block, catch, and even throw, Villari increases the value of an extra tight end spot in a sub-package.
Defensive depth also dictates choices. Payton Zdroik’s elite RAS signals interior explosiveness, but the Rams must balance veteran play with upside. Eddie Walls III offers proven tackle and sack production, so coaches cannot ignore his college production. Therefore Walls becomes a candidate not only for linebacker snaps but for rotational edge roles and special teams.
Practical roster math is unforgiving. The 53-man limit rewards players who do more than one thing. Consequently, undrafted Rams rookies who should make the roster must show special teams value, position versatility, or immediate scheme fit. Dean Connors, at 5-foot-11 and 206 pounds, fits that mold as a downhill runner and special teams contributor.
In short, the path from UDFA to active roster runs through versatility, scheme fit, and special teams. Fans should watch training camp reps and preseason snaps closely because those minutes decide who stays, who hits the practice squad, and who becomes the next roster surprise.
Conclusion
The case for undrafted Rams rookies who should make the roster is simple: they bring versatility, proven production, and clear special teams value. Dan Villari offers matchup flexibility, Eddie Walls III brings tackle and sack upside, Payton Zdroik adds rare interior athleticism, Dean Connors supplies short-area burst, and Jordan Waters delivers power in short yards.
Because the Rams use 13-personnel packages and often reward multifaceted players, these rookies fit immediate scheme needs. Therefore coaches can justify extra roster or practice squad spots for players who perform on special teams and in sub-packages.
Training camp reps and preseason snaps will decide who stays. Still, fans should be excited because these undrafted names can swing games and create roster surprises.
For dedicated Rams coverage and fan-first analysis, follow Rams News LLC at Rams News LLC and on Twitter @ZachGatsby for daily updates and training camp dispatches.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do roster cuts work and when will the Rams trim to 53?
Teams reduce from the offseason roster to 53 players before the regular season. The Rams will cut after preseason and final practice sessions. As a result, performance in camp and preseason games decides many spots.
What makes these undrafted rookies stand out from other hopefuls?
They bring versatility, college production, and special teams upside. For example, Eddie Walls III posted 92 tackles, 17.5 tackles for loss, and 12 sacks over two seasons. Payton Zdroik’s 9.26 RAS shows elite athleticism. Therefore coaches notice traits that match scheme needs.
What role does special teams play in a UDFA making the 53?
Special teams often decide final roster spots. Players who can cover kicks, block, or return add immediate value. Consequently, rookies who excel there have a better chance to stay.
If a rookie doesn’t make the 53, what is the practice squad path?
Teams can sign eligible players to the practice squad. It keeps players in the building while they develop. Still, practice squad members must earn promotions through practice and injury openings.
How should fans track these rookies during training camp?
Watch reps, preseason snaps, and special teams play. Also follow beat writers for insider updates. Fans will see who earns trust and fits schemes, which ultimately predicts roster outcomes.