The 2025 NFL Draft has concluded, and while many players heard their names called, others faced the uncertainty of going undrafted. However, for several athletes with Utah ties, the journey to the NFL is far from over. Through free agency, these players have secured opportunities to prove themselves at the next level, signing contracts and earning mini-camp invites with various teams.
### **Undrafted but Determined**
Going undrafted can be a tough pill to swallow, but history has shown that many undrafted free agents go on to have successful careers. Some even become stars in the league. For Utah-based players, the post-draft period has been a whirlwind of negotiations and decisions, as teams look to add depth and potential playmakers to their rosters.
### **Notable Utah Free Agent Signings**
Several players from Utah colleges and high schools have landed opportunities in the NFL despite not being selected in the draft. Among them is **Tyler Batty**, a standout defensive end from BYU and Payson High, who has signed with the **Minnesota Vikings** [A](https://www.deseret.com/sports/2025/04/26/utah-byu-free-agent-signings-2025-nfl-draft/?copilot_analytics_metadata=eyJldmVudEluZm9fY2xpY2tTb3VyY2UiOiJjaXRhdGlvbkxpbmsiLCJldmVudEluZm9fY29udmVyc2F0aW9uSWQiOiJ4djhvZFlSSHhkdTJmOTFBRWZNalgiLCJldmVudEluZm9fbWVzc2FnZUlkIjoiU2RDZUtIclVwR1g0TlVFTDV6ZGRBIiwiZXZlbnRJbmZvX2NsaWNrRGVzdGluYXRpb24iOiJodHRwczpcL1wvd3d3LmRlc2VyZXQuY29tXC9zcG9ydHNcLzIwMjVcLzA0XC8yNlwvdXRhaC1ieXUtZnJlZS1hZ2VudC1zaWduaW5ncy0yMDI1LW5mbC1kcmFmdFwvIn0%3D&citationMarker=9F742443-6C92-4C44-BF58-8F5A7C53B6F1). Batty was a key contributor for the Cougars, showcasing his ability to disrupt opposing offenses with his pass-rushing skills.
Another notable signing is **Caleb Lohner**, a tight end who played at Utah, BYU, and Wasatch Academy. Lohner was drafted in the seventh round by the **Denver Broncos**, but his journey highlights the strong presence of Utah talent in the NFL [A](https://www.deseret.com/sports/2025/04/26/utah-byu-free-agent-signings-2025-nfl-draft/?copilot_analytics_metadata=eyJldmVudEluZm9fY2xpY2tTb3VyY2UiOiJjaXRhdGlvbkxpbmsiLCJldmVudEluZm9fY29udmVyc2F0aW9uSWQiOiJ4djhvZFlSSHhkdTJmOTFBRWZNalgiLCJldmVudEluZm9fbWVzc2FnZUlkIjoiU2RDZUtIclVwR1g0TlVFTDV6ZGRBIiwiZXZlbnRJbmZvX2NsaWNrRGVzdGluYXRpb24iOiJodHRwczpcL1wvd3d3LmRlc2VyZXQuY29tXC9zcG9ydHNcLzIwMjVcLzA0XC8yNlwvdXRhaC1ieXUtZnJlZS1hZ2VudC1zaWduaW5ncy0yMDI1LW5mbC1kcmFmdFwvIn0%3D&citationMarker=9F742443-6C92-4C44-BF58-8F5A7C53B6F1). Additionally, **Jalen Royals**, a wide receiver from Utah State, was selected by the **Kansas City Chiefs** in the fourth round.
Beyond those drafted, several Utah-based players have earned mini-camp invites, giving them a chance to impress coaches and secure a roster [A](https://www.deseret.com/sports/2025/04/26/utah-byu-free-agent-signings-2025-nfl-draft/?copilot_analytics_metadata=eyJldmVudEluZm9fY2xpY2tTb3VyY2UiOiJjaXRhdGlvbkxpbmsiLCJldmVudEluZm9fY29udmVyc2F0aW9uSWQiOiJ4djhvZFlSSHhkdTJmOTFBRWZNalgiLCJldmVudEluZm9fbWVzc2FnZUlkIjoiU2RDZUtIclVwR1g0TlVFTDV6ZGRBIiwiZXZlbnRJbmZvX2NsaWNrRGVzdGluYXRpb24iOiJodHRwczpcL1wvd3d3LmRlc2VyZXQuY29tXC9zcG9ydHNcLzIwMjVcLzA0XC8yNlwvdXRhaC1ieXUtZnJlZS1hZ2VudC1zaWduaW5ncy0yMDI1LW5mbC1kcmFmdFwvIn0%3D&citationMarker=9F742443-6C92-4C44-BF58-8F5A7C53B6F1) spot. These opportunities are crucial for undrafted players, as they allow them to showcase their skills and prove they belong in the league.
### **The Road Ahead**
For these athletes, signing as undrafted free agents is just the beginning. They will now face intense competition in training camps, where they must prove their worth against seasoned veterans and fellow rookies. The goal is to earn a spot on the final roster or, at the very least, secure a place on the practice squad.
Many undrafted players have gone on to have successful careers, and Utah’s latest crop of free agents will be looking to follow in the footsteps of past success stories. Whether they make an immediate impact or develop over time, their journey is a testament to perseverance and determination.
### **Conclusion**
The 2025 NFL Draft may have ended, but for Utah’s undrafted talent, the dream is still alive. With free agent signings and mini-camp invites secured, these players have a chance to carve out their place in the league. Their journey serves as a reminder that being undrafted does not mean the end—it simply marks the beginning of a different path to success.
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