The Washington Commanders finally confirmed their undrafted free-agent class of 2025. Now, the onus is on each hopeful to stake a claim as preparations for the upcoming campaign gather pace.
Undrafted free agents start from the bottom. They have to work their way up and face a stiff test of their credentials. The margin for error is slim, so nothing but maximum effort and seizing every opportunity will do.
It isn't easy, but it can be done. Two undrafted free agents made the Commanders' 53-man roster last year. Safety Tyler Owens became one of the biggest surprises to secure his place deservedly. Tight end Colson Yankoff was also rewarded for his outstanding commitment to the cause. Neither played much, but this experience of being part of a memorable campaign will serve them well.
Some won't make the grade and will be moved on with little fanfare attached. Others will showcase enough to secure places on the practice squad, which represents an achievement in itself. And perhaps one or two can surge into consideration much sooner than anticipated.
With this in mind, here are five undrafted free agents nobody saw coming who could steal roster spots on the Commanders in 2025.
UDFAs nobody saw coming who could steal Commanders roster spots
Ricky Barber - Commanders DL
The Washington Commanders made a concerted effort to fortify the trenches on both sides of the football this offseason. There was one big gamble on the defensive line, which centered on general manager Adam Peters releasing Pro Bowler Jonathan Allen and replacing him with Javon Kinlaw.
It'll be interesting to see if Kinlaw can meet loftier expectations on a legitimate contender. Washington brought back most of last season's linemen, which retains continuity if nothing else. There doesn't appear to be much room for a surprise package, but that doesn't mean Ricky Barber cannot make his presence felt with a smooth transition.
Barber was a solid if not spectacular player throughout his six-year college career. He spent the first two years at Western Kentucky before transferring to UCF, where he shone as a run stopper en route to 24 tackles for loss in four seasons.
Getting off to a good start is crucial. Barber has a lot of likable traits but lacks the explosiveness needed to become a genuine game-wrecker in the pros. His primary objective will be to compete for a depth chart spot in favor of someone like Sheldon Day or Jayln Holmes. After that, everything else is out of his hands.