Projecting which Memphis football undrafted free agents could make NFL rosters

A new crop of former Memphis football players will be fighting to make NFL rosters.

The Tigers did not have any players selected in the 2024 NFL Draft, but several signed deals as undrafted free agents or accepted offers for rookie minicamps. Running back Blake Watson and defensive lineman Jaylon Allen signed with the Denver Broncos, while receiver Joe Scates has joined the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Linebacker Geoffrey Cantin-Arku (Miami Dolphins) and center Jacob Likes (Broncos) earned invites to rookie minicamps.

Signing a free-agent deal doesn't guarantee a player will make the 53-man roster in September, though. Some could earn spots on a practice roster.

Here's what to know about the player and their chances of making those rosters.

Blake Watson, Broncos

Watson had been a projected draft pick but ended up signing with the Broncos shortly after the draft ended. He'll join a Denver running back room that includes last year's leading rusher in Javonte Williams, with Jaleel McLaughlin, 2024 fifth-round pick Audric Estimé, Semaje Perine and Tyler Badie all in the mix as well.

Broncos coaches will no doubt be watching the competition between Estimé and Watson very closely. Estimé was picked in the same draft Watson went undrafted, so the Memphis product has some obvious work to do there. Watson's ability to contribute in the passing game will make him an attractive candidate at the end of the roster, but both Williams and McLaughlin caught more than 30 passes last season.

Still, there's a reason Watson chose Denver over his other suitors in the free agent market. He'll have a legitimate shot at making the roster.

Jaylon Allen, Broncos

Allen was an anchor of Memphis' defense during his six seasons. He played on the defensive line but projects as an outside linebacker in a 3-4 system. He made 41 tackles and had two sacks in 2023.

He's undersized, but the 6-foot-3, 240-pound Allen has the motor to compete for a roster spot at that position. And there will be plenty of competition for the final few spots. The Broncos have Jonathan Cooper and Baron Browning as likely starters, but Allen will be in a mix with Thomas Incoom, Durell Nchami, Ronnie Perkins and others.

As with lots of spots at the end of NFL rosters, his ability to contribute on special teams could play a role in whether or not he ultimately makes the cut.

Joe Scates, Jaguars

Scates was Memphis' No. 3 receiver in 2023, catching 33 passes for 414 yards and six touchdowns. He's a former four-star recruit who started his career with Iowa State.

He's always been talented, but he'll have to put everything together to make the Jaguars' roster. Jacksonville drafted Brian Thomas Jr. in the first round and also has Gabe Davis and Christian Kirk as projected starters.

Scates will be competing with other undrafted receivers for the final roster spots. The Jaguars also signed UTSA's Joshua Cephus and Western Carolina's David White Jr., and they'll be among a slew of players in the roster mix at the position.

Reach sports writer Jonah Dylan at jonah.dylan@commercialappeal.com or on X @thejonahdylan.

This article originally appeared on Memphis Commercial Appeal: A look at which Memphis undrafted free agents could make NFL rosters