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Kody Huisman is a defensive lineman from Virginia Tech who recently signed with the Buffalo Bills as an undrafted free agent (UDFA) following the 2026 NFL Draft. As a player who did not get selected during the draft, Huisman represents a growing trend where college athletes still find opportunities in the NFL through UDFA contracts, allowing teams to fill their rosters with talent that may have been overlooked.
A UDFA, or undrafted free agent, is a player who is not selected during the NFL Draft but is eligible to sign with any team after the draft concludes. This process allows teams to acquire additional talent and gives players a chance to prove themselves in training camps and preseason games, often leading to roster spots if they perform well.
UDFA signings can significantly impact NFL teams by providing depth and potential talent without the cost of draft picks. Teams often look for players who can fill specific needs or add competition at positions. Successful UDFAs can become key contributors or even starters, exemplified by players like Antonio Gates and Kurt Warner, who both found success after going undrafted.
Signing UDFAs allows NFL teams to enhance their rosters without sacrificing draft capital. UDFAs often bring unique skills or experience, contributing to team dynamics. Additionally, they can be less expensive than drafted players, allowing teams to allocate resources elsewhere. This strategy is particularly valuable for teams looking to build depth or develop talent over time.
Kody Huisman is noted as the fifth player from Virginia Tech to sign a UDFA contract following the 2026 NFL Draft. This indicates a strong presence of Hokie athletes in the professional league, showcasing the university's ability to produce players who can transition to the NFL, even if they are not drafted.
Virginia Tech's football program has a rich history, known for its competitive spirit and strong performances in college football. The Hokies have produced numerous NFL players over the years and are recognized for their solid defensive play and distinctive 'Enter Sandman' entrance at home games. Their success includes multiple bowl game appearances and a trip to the BCS National Championship in 2000.
Recent NFL drafts have shown a trend towards prioritizing athleticism and versatility in player selection. Teams are increasingly valuing players who can fill multiple roles, particularly on offense and special teams. Additionally, there is a growing emphasis on scouting smaller schools and identifying hidden gems, leading to more UDFAs making significant impacts in the league.
Teams evaluate undrafted players through a combination of college performance, physical attributes, and interviews. Scouts analyze game film, statistics, and combine results to assess a player's potential. Additionally, teams often invite UDFAs to rookie minicamps to observe their skills and fit within the team structure, allowing coaches to make informed decisions on roster spots.
College statistics play a crucial role in UDFA signings as they provide insight into a player's performance and potential. Teams analyze metrics such as yards gained, tackles made, and overall impact on games. While stats are important, teams also consider a player's intangibles, such as work ethic and coachability, which can influence their decision to sign a UDFA.
UDFA signing differs from the draft in that it occurs after the draft has concluded, allowing players not selected to seek opportunities with any team. In contrast, the draft involves teams selecting players in a structured order, using picks they have acquired. UDFAs often face more competition for roster spots, as teams may have already filled key positions during the draft.
