Yes, Jalon Daniels went undrafted in the 2026 NFL Draft, but the former Kansas quarterback still found his way into the NFL as an undrafted free agent.
Daniels, who became one of the most recognizable quarterbacks in Kansas football during his college career, was not selected during the seven rounds of the 2026 NFL Draft. Shortly afterward, he received an opportunity to continue his career at the professional level.
Was Jalon Daniels Drafted?
No. Jalon Daniels was not selected in the 2026 NFL Draft, making him an undrafted free agent.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers signed Daniels as an undrafted rookie free agent, giving him an opportunity to compete for a roster spot during the offseason and training camp.
Jalon Daniels NFL Timeline
- College: Kansas Jayhawks
- Position: Quarterback
- 2026 NFL Draft: Undrafted
- NFL entry: Undrafted free agent
- Signed by: Tampa Bay Buccaneers
- NFL season: Rookie in 2026
Why Did Jalon Daniels Go Undrafted?
Daniels entered the professional ranks with significant college experience and demonstrated playmaking ability both through the air and on the ground.
However, NFL teams evaluate quarterbacks on several factors beyond college production, including size, arm strength, accuracy, processing speed, durability, mechanics and how well a player’s skill set projects into a professional offensive system.
Daniels ultimately wasn’t selected during the draft, but going undrafted did not end his opportunity to play in the NFL.
Many quarterbacks and other NFL stars have built successful careers after entering the league as undrafted free agents.
Jalon Daniels’ College Career at Kansas
Daniels became a major figure in the resurgence of the Kansas Jayhawks football program.
Known for his mobility and ability to create plays outside the pocket, Daniels developed into a dual-threat quarterback capable of hurting defenses as both a passer and runner.
His performances at Kansas helped raise his national profile and eventually gave him an opportunity to compete for an NFL roster position.
Jalon Daniels Joins the Tampa Bay Buccaneers
After going undrafted, Daniels signed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
For an undrafted quarterback, simply earning an NFL opportunity can be difficult. Daniels had to prove during offseason workouts, training camp and preseason competition that his college skill set could translate to the professional game.
His journey illustrates why the NFL Draft isn’t necessarily the final word on a player’s professional prospects.
What Does UDFA Mean in the NFL?
UDFA stands for “undrafted free agent.”
Players who aren’t selected during the NFL Draft become eligible to negotiate and sign with NFL teams once the draft concludes.
Unlike drafted rookies, undrafted players can choose among interested teams and potentially select an organization that provides the best opportunity to make the roster.
Jalon Daniels’ Road From Kansas to the NFL
Jalon Daniels’ NFL journey began differently than many highly drafted quarterbacks.
He went from being a standout quarterback at Kansas to going undrafted in the 2026 NFL Draft, before receiving his opportunity with Tampa Bay.
His story is another reminder that draft position determines how a player enters the NFL — not necessarily how far that player can ultimately go.