Next Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, as the NFL Draft unfolds in Detroit, there will inevitably be players who won’t have the opportunity to hear their names called.
Brock Wright, the experienced tight end for the Lions, found himself in that very situation after going undrafted from Notre Dame in 2021. Throughout his four seasons with the Fighting Irish, he primarily served as a blocking tight end, with a mere seven receptions to his name. Realistically, he understood that his chances of being selected in the draft were slim.
Reflecting on his journey, Wright shared an insightful anecdote from his exit interviews at the end of the season. During a conversation with offensive coordinator Ben Johnson, Johnson pointed out, “Choosing Detroit as an unrestricted free agent was perhaps the best decision you’ve ever made in your life.” Wright has since echoed this sentiment, considering it one of the most exceptional choices he’s made.
One advantage of not being drafted is the freedom for these players to sign with any team they desire once the draft concludes. In Wright’s case, he seized the opportunity to sign with the Detroit Lions, ultimately making the practice squad following training camp. As the season progressed, he was promoted to the active roster in Week 7, where he impressed by securing a couple of touchdown receptions in his rookie year.
