Which UDFAs Will Make the Packers: Preseason Week 2 Edition

Shortly after the 2013 NFL Draft, we wrote a primer on which five undrafted free agent rookies were best positioned to make the Packers' final roster. While we conceded that mere opportunity and playing ability doesn't always translate to roster spots, our batting average looks strong at the moment. Not only are three still on the roster (never a guarantee given attrition and normal player movement), but each still has a reasonable shot at making the team. Let's review who those players are.

The Remaining Three

Andy Mulumba, OLB, Eastern Michigan

Through two weeks of training camp and the first preseason game, Mulumba stands the best chance of any UDFA to make the final roster. What excited us initially about Mulumba was his size (6-3 and 260 pounds) and his potential to bull rush effectively. So far, he's played to form. On multiple occasions, McCarthy and the rest of the coaching staff have singled out Mulumba for praise, regularly crediting his "nasty streak" and understanding of leverage for his impact. The only locks at outside linebacker are Clay Matthews, Nick Perry, and Dezman Moses. Even if Mike Neal is included for sake of argument, there should be at least one more spot at outside linebacker. Barring injury, expect Mulumba to take that final spot.

Myles White, WR, Louisiana Tech

What we found attractive about Myles White back in May was his speed. White displayed plenty of it in OTAs, and still plays fast now that the pads have come on. He's made several splash plays as well. However, any lead he might have had for a hypothetical sixth receiver spot evaporated Friday night when fellow UDFA rookie Tyrone Walker put on a show against the Cardinals' secondary. That said, White is still a strong candidate for the final roster. If he continues to show some of his game-breaking speed in practice and in games, the Packers will have to consider giving him a spot on the roster or practice squad.

Jake Stoneburner, TE, Ohio State

Let's start with the good with Jake Stoneburner; the Packers gave him snaps in the first half of the preseason game against Arizona. That's a good indication that the coaching staff has liked the way Stoneburner practices. However, he was targeted zero times Friday night and seems to be trailing Brandon Bostick, D.J. Williams, and Matthew Mulligan for the final roster spot at tight end. Stoneburner, primarily a pass-catcher, needs to make more splashes in the passing game over the next three weeks if he wants to stick around.

Rising UDFAs

Tyrone Walker, WR, Illinois State

It surprised many when the Packers drafted or signed four players out of Division I-AA Illinois State. Two, quarterback Matt Brown and safety Ben Ericksen, have already been released by Green Bay. Linebacker Nate Palmer, the only Redbird drafted, has been mostly invisible during camp. However, it's the most unlikely of the bunch that's made the greatest impact. On paper, Tyrone Walker is listed at 5-10 and 191 pounds, the same as Randall Cobb. However, Walker does not possess Cobb's tank build or his slippery quickness. Rather, Walker is an undersized possession receiver who relies on his intelligence to trick defenders into giving him space.

As it stands, four roster spots for receivers are locked up. At most, two more remain vacant. Even assuming that the Packers haven't penciled in Jeremy Ross for the 53, there's no guarantee that Walker's great camp will get him on a spot. However, the Packers have found ways to get players like Walker onto the final roster in the past.

Angelo Pease, RB, Kansas State

In fairness, there's no way Angelo Pease makes the final roster without multiple injuries at the running back position. It's common knowledge that Eddie Lacy and Johnathan Franklin are locks for the 53 with at least two of Alex Green, James Starks, and DuJuan Harris joining them. Even if the Packers decide to move on from the fullback position, that doesn't leave any room for the undrafted Pease. However, only Lacy and Starks can run with the kind of power Pease provides. Those backs are rare in the NFL, and if Pease passes through waivers, the Packers would be wise to stash him on the practice squad.

Jason Hirschhorn covers the Green Bay Packers for Acme Packing Co. He has previously written for Lombardi Ave, College Hoops Net, LiveBall Sports, and the List Universe. He is also currently a senior writer for Beats Per Minute, an indie-music webzine. Follow him on Twitter: @JBHirschhorn