Even before the close of the 2023 NFL draft, scouts were working the phones calling the agents of undrafted free agents (UDFA), trying to round out their team’s 90-man roster. UDFAs are typically guys who are referred to as training camp “bodies” or depth pieces; many will be cut at the end of camp and make their way onto the practice squad.
Occasionally, a player will rise above the rest and earn his way onto the 53-man roster. It happened to safety Ryan Clark in 2002, who was eventually signed by the New York Giants. He shared an encouraging message with those who didn’t hear their name called in 259 announcements. Linebacker James Harrison was also among the undrafteds of the 2002 class. Most recently, the diamond in the rough for the Pittsburgh Steelers was running back Jaylen Warren.
In an attempt to find their next hidden gem, the Steelers announced on April 30, 2023, that seven spots were filled. Active players, rookies and these UDFAs, total 86 (of 90 spots). Unless cuts happen, three more players will be added — and likely after the XFL wraps its season on May 13.
We have agreed to terms with seven undrafted rookie free agents.
This list will be updated as additional UDFAs are signed.
Tanner Morgan, QB, Minnesota
The first UDFA signed was quarterback Tanner Morgan out of Minnesota, reported by NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero.
In five seasons as a Gopher, Morgan logged 9,454 yards and 65 touchdowns.
Former Minnesota QB Tanner Morgan is signing with the #Steelers, per source.
This is by no means Goodbye, Mitch Trubisky. The Pittsburgh Steelers generally take four quarterbacks into camp. As the season approaches and if Morgan works his butt off, he could be QB3 behind Kenny Pickett and Trubisky, but it’s too early to call. At the very least, he’ll be a “camp arm,” throwing to receivers to spell Pickett and Trubisky.
The Steelers will likely look to the quarterback cupboard via the second wave of free agency, but it’s pretty bare. At the moment, they have very little cap space to do so. That could leave the crop of XFL quarterbacks, including former Pitt quarterback and Pickett teammate Ben DiNucci (Seattle Sea Dragons), who had a modicum of success in the pros with the Dallas Cowboys. He’s been lighting it up in the third iteration of The Rock’s football league.
Ben DiNucci to Jahcour Pearson never gets old. Whether or not the @XFLSeaDragons make the postseason, this connection has been absolutely electric in the @XFL2023 this season.
Both these guys should be in NFL camps soon. #XFL | @B_DiNucci6 | @JayPeeezyy
Monte Pottebaum, FB, Iowa
There’s already a bit of a cult following surrounding Monte Pottebaum. And with a nickname like “Monte the Mullet,” it’s well deserved. The Steelers are looking for depth behind Connor Heyward, who offensive coordinator Matt Canada alluded to moving to fullback after drafting tight end Darnell Washington.
Pro Football Network scouting report
David Perales, DE, Fresno State
The Pittsburgh Steelers are signing DE David Perales as a UDFA.
Jordan Byrd, RB, San Diego State
Byrd rushed for 1,353 yards and 12 touchdowns in five years for the SDSU Aztecs. He could wind up challenging veteran Anthony McFarland for a roster spot.
Former Manzano High School and SDSU standout Jordan Byrd is signing a free agent contract with the #Steelers. He joins fellow ABQ native Zach Gentry in Pittsburgh.
Pro Football Network scouting report
B.T. Potter, K, Clemson
The #Steelers will sign former Clemson K B.T. Potter.
James Nyamwaya, DE, Merrimack College
Congratulations to James Nyamwaya on signing with the Pittsburgh Steelers!
NFL Draft Diamonds scouting report
Trevor Downing, C, Iowa State
Given the number of interior offensive linemen the Steelers added in free agency, it’ll be interesting to see where he fits in training camp. He has some positional flexibility, starting at guard for the Cyclones in 2021.
Former #IowaState C Trevor Downing is signing with the #Steelers as an undrafted free agent.
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Steelers 2023 UDFA Tracker: ‘Savvy’ Rookie QB Added to Roster