Why do guys like Phillip Lindsay fall out of the draft even though teams like the Denver Broncos really want them?
Answered by: Shelby Manning
When talking about players like Phillip Lindsay, it is useful to use him as a specific example.
Lindsay was not invited to the NFL Combine, and when players do not receive that invitation, it may become difficult for a player to demonstrate their skill set.
The common belief is that Lindsay was not invited because there were concerns regarding his size. Standing at only 5’8”, scouts were surely worried that Phillip Lindsay was not big and physical enough to play in the NFL.
Lindsay also played for Colorado. While Colorado is definitely a great football program, it does not receive the exposure that schools like Alabama, Oklahoma, or Clemson receive.
With both of these factors playing in, it can be difficult for scouts and NFL teams to really see a player and players like Phillip Lindsay may end up slipping under the radar.
However, scouts from all 32 teams missed big on drafting Phillip Lindsay. His speed, physicality, and ability to break tackles quickly put the league on notice that every team who passed on him made a mistake, including the Broncos.
Going undrafted is disappointing but can be overcome. Players like Chris Harris Jr, CJ Anderson, and Wesley Woodyard have all enjoyed success as UDFA’s.
Overall, small players like Phillip Lindsay may get passed on, but their opportunity will come.