Adam Rodriguez, defensive end, Philadelphia Stars
Former Weber State Wildcat Adam Rodrigues is the only player on this list without some NFL experience. He recorded 199 tackles and 22 sacks in 52 collegiate games, and was drafted in the second round of the 2022 USFL Draft. He completed his first regular season of professional football with 9 sacks and 40 tackles, helping to lead the Philadelphia Stars to the USFL championship game.
As the leader of the defense, Rodriguez will be in the spotlight on Sunday and could possibly propel himself into NFL teams’ consideration with a standout performance. At 6’2” and 245 pounds, he may be considered slightly undersized in terms of his length, but he made his presence known throughout the regular season and will be considered in the same ranks as the younger talent available in the NFL’s remaining free agent pool.
With the USFL, again, widely regarded as a developmental league, taking a shot on any player who stood out this season is no guarantee that a team lands a high quality addition. However, considering the current stature of the Chiefs’ defensive line, any talent added would have to be considered a win for the team.