The 2023 NFL Draft has come to a close, but that doesn’t mean the Patriots are done adding players. After making 12 picks, they have 3 roster spots remaining to sign undrafted free agents.
For 19 years in a row, at least one UDFA has made the Patriots’ initial roster out of training camp. So at least one of their signings this evening will very likely end up playing for the team in meaningful games. We’ll keep track of all the additions here as the news comes in, as well as other rumors involving the Patriots.
LB/S Jourdan Heilig, Appalachian State
Nov 9, 2019; Columbia, SC, USA; Appalachian State Mountaineers linebacker Jourdan Heilig (34) tackles South Carolina Gamecocks quarterback Dakereon Joyner (7) during the second half at Williams-Brice Stadium. Credit: Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports
With their final UDFA spot, the Patriots are signing Heiling, according to Doug Kyed of AtoZSports. Heilig was originally expected to return to the collegiate level after entering the transfer portal, but ended up declaring for the NFL Draft at the last minute. He’s expected to compete for a special teams role this summer.
TE Johnny Lumpkin, Louisiana
Johnny Lumpkin (88) with the ball as the Louisiana Ragin’ Cajuns take on Arkansas State as they celebrate military service. Saturday, Oct. 22, 2022 (Andre Broussard/Special to The Daily Advertiser/USA Today Network)
After not drafting a tight end with any of their 12 picks, the Patriots finally add at the position via the UDFA market. According to Jordan Schultz of the Score, the team is bringing in Lumpkin as a UDFA.
At 6-foot-6, 266 pounds, Lumpkin is primarily a blocking tight end. In his first season as a starter last year he caught 16 passes for 143 yards and four touchdowns.
QB Malik Cunningham, Louisville
ATLANTA, GEORGIA – SEPTEMBER 06: Malik Cunningham #3 of the Louisville Cardinals rolls out against the Mississippi Rebels during the first half of the Chick-fil-A Kick-Off Game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on September 06, 2021 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
The Patriots kick off the UDFA cycle by signing an experienced and athletic quarterback in Cunningham. The signing was first reported by NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero.
After replacing Lamar Jackson as the stater in Louisville, Cunningham threw for 9,660 yards and 70 touchdowns with 29 interceptions, while rushing for another 3,179 yards and 50 more scores. The Patriots met with Cunningham during the pre-draft process. According to MassLive’s Mark Daniels, Cunningham is open to a position change at the next level.
