2015 Packers outside linebacker preview: Could another undrafted edge rusher make the 53?

Over the next few weeks, we will break down each position on the Green Bay Packers' 2015 roster in detail, discussing each player and making our predictions for the final 53-man roster.

Since Frank Zombo made the Packers' Week 1 roster in 2010, the team has kept at least one undrafted rookie edge rusher on the 53 each year. Most recently, Jayrone Elliott stamped his ticket to a roster spot with a five-sack performance during the 2014 preseason. Whether that trend continues into 2015 is one of the quietly fascinating narratives of the upcoming season.

Here is our breakdown of the Packers' new additions at outside linebacker.

James Vaughters

Acquired: signed as undrafted free agent
Age: 22
H/w: 6'2", 254
College: Stanford

The scouting report on James Vaughters reads like boilerplate language written for seemingly every Stanford defender to enter the NFL in recent years: smart, strong but not overly athletic. While Vaughters does somewhat fit that profile, it doesn't quite do him justice. What separates him from most other rookies is his background in the 3-4 defense. If Vaughters can use that familiarity as a springboard during training camp, he has the talent to earn a spot on the 53 or practice squad.

Jermauria Rasco

Acquired: signed as undrafted free agent
Age: 22
H/w: 6'3, 252
College: Louisiana State

A former four-star recruit to one of the nation's biggest football factories, Rasco never developed into a consistent pass rusher. He compiled just 10 sacks during his college career despite starting for two full seasons in a loaded defense. However, Rasco tested well in the speed drills at LSU's pro day, suggesting that he might still have more left to cultivate. At the same time, his jumps (28 1/2" vertical, 9' broad) paint the picture of a more limited athlete.