Four Syracuse football players sign undrafted free agent contracts

While as many as four Syracuse Orange football players had a chance to be selected in this year’s NFL Draft, we wound up with two: Alton Robinson (fifth round to the Seahawks) and Sterling Hofrichter (seventh round to the Falcons).

However, other former Orange players will still have a shot at making NFL teams for 2020.

Following the draft, four different Syracuse players signed free agent deals. A quick rundown on those names, and where they’ve landed:

Trishton Jackson, Los Angeles Rams

Following a standout 2019 with Syracuse, Jackson was a surprise declaration for the draft — yet he received a Scouting Combine invite and seemed to move up draft boards after a strong performance there. Unfortunately he didn’t hear his name called, but does wind up in an advantageous situation in L.A. now. The Rams have been shaking up skill positions this offseason, which could afford Jackson an opportunity to make a roster this fall.

Kendall Coleman, Indianapolis Colts

Perhaps it’s no surprise that Coleman winds up with his hometown Colts, given his work with Robert Mathis this offseason and the franchise’s strong connections with Syracuse already (most notably in the form of current linebacker Zaire Franklin). At minimum, Coleman will get a fair chance to show something in Indy, which could set him up somewhere else if it comes to that.

Sean Riley, New England Patriots

With a lot of upheaval this offseason for the Patriots, Riley getting a chance seems like a great situation. His speed is clearly a value, and his special teams experience should speak volumes. Whether he can catch on as a wide receiver will depend on if he can quickly generate a rapport (and stay consistent) in New England’s revamped passing game.

Evan Adams, Baltimore Ravens

Given the offense Baltimore embraced this past season with Lamar Jackson under center, they could always use some fresh bodies on the line. Adams will join the Ravens and though it’s not an easy road ahead, his abilities to block for mobile QBs (looking at his experience in front of Eric Dungey) could prove useful.

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If anyone else joins the list of undrafted free agents, we’ll be sure to feature them here. Congrats to all the former Orange players getting an opportunity to continue playing football.