Jets UDFA proving everyone wrong by turning heads at rookie minicamp

The NY Jets followed a strong 2025 NFL Draft class with some intriguing UDFA additions, including Armand Membou's college quarterback in Brady Cook and Senior Bowl standout Jamaal Pritchett. Perhaps the biggest name in terms of raw notoriety is former Michigan running back Donovan Edwards.

Edwards, who became known to the masses as a member of the Wolverines' national title team and a cover athlete alongside Travis Hunter and Quinn Ewers on College Football 25, fell in the draft after regressing in 2024 and watching Tennessee Titans rookie Kalel Mullings leapfrog him.

The Jets signed Edwards with the thought that last year was not necessarily indicative of how good he is as a player. The early returns seem to suggest that New York is well on their way to turning Edwards into a solid pro player.

ESPN's Rich Cimini said that Edwards stood out in the first few portions of OTAs, citing his "good hands" and "smooth" style in the backfield. There's always a handful of skill position players who thrive when they make the transition to the NFL after going undrafted, and Edwards just might be next in line.

Jets UDFA RB Donovan Edwards impressing at rookie minicamp

The Jets will be led by Breece Hall in what promises to be a run-heavy offense, but backup Braelon Allen showed some encouraging reps as a sledgehammer between the tackles and 2024 sixth-rounder Isaiah Davis will have a role. This is a deeper RB room than most will see.

Edwards is the favorite to win the RB4 role. Former top recruit Zach Evans will likely be his top competition for this role, as Kene Nwangwu will primarily be on this team for his ability to return kicks instead of his skill in between the tackles. Edwards will need to shake off a subpar 2024 season.

Edwards ran for nearly 1,000 yards in 2022 and had 104 yards with two touchdowns in Michigan's National Championship triumph. In 2024, Edwards mustered just 4.6 yards per carry and didn't cross 100 yards in any game. Can Tanner Engstrand get him back on the right track in the pros?

In an offense that is going to both run the ball plenty and rotate the backs often, Edwards may have a better chance at rising above the common rabble and establishing himself as an NFL player than most UDFA longshots trying to make a name for themselves.