JUST IN: two key player has decided to join Kentucky wildcat….

Within hours of the conclusion of the NFL Draft, three former Kentucky Wildcats signed as undrafted free agents (UDFA).

OT Jeremy Flax, Minnesota Vikings
WR Tayvion Robinson, Baltimore Ravens
TE Brenden Bates, Chicago Bears

Bates likely had the most lucrative deal of the three. Following an impressive pro day, he received interest from multiple teams before agreeing to join the Bears organization, who just received a significant shot in the arm with two Top 10 picks in this year’s draft. IOL Kenneth Horsey did not sign a UDFA deal but received rookie mini-camp invitations from the New York Jets and Washington Commanders.

Jacob Tamme once shared with me a poignant piece of advice that he shares with every college athlete who seeks it out. “Every player has a chance, it just might not be where you thought.” Signing as a UDFA may actually give players a better opportunity to thrive, rather than landing with one team in the later rounds of the NFL Draft.

It worked out well for Josh Ali two years ago. The former Kentucky pass-catcher suffered an injury in a car wreck that sidelined him through the pre-Draft process. He signed as a UDFA wth the Atlanta Falcons, then worked his way up from the practice squad to an active roster.