Undrafted free agents (UDFAs) rarely make NFL rosters, with only 23% of total NFL players being undrafted. For the Cleveland Browns specifically, only one UDFA rookie (D'Anthony Bell) has made their roster in the past four years. However, two UDFAs show strong potential to make the Browns' 53-man roster this season.

Safety Ronnie Hickman

• Former Ohio State player, 6'1" 209 lbs
• Led Buckeyes with 100 tackles and 2 interceptions in 2021
• Initially criticized for coverage skills but has impressed in preseason with 3 interceptions and 3 pass breakups
• Competing with D'Anthony Bell for fourth safety spot behind Thornhill, McLeod, and Delpit
• Strong special teams play could secure his roster spot

Linebacker Mohamoud Diabate

• Former Florida/Utah player showing playmaking ability
• Recorded a safety and forced fumble against Eagles in preseason
• Strong run defender with 27 run stops, 7 sacks, 24 QB pressures in college
• Limited in coverage but excels playing downhill and rushing the passer
• Could fill need at linebacker with injuries to Takitaki, Walker, and Phillips
• Special teams value increases chances of making roster

Both players have shown enough potential through preseason to warrant serious consideration for the final roster, particularly given their positions of need and special teams contributions.

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