Draft expert reveals Commanders UDFA gem who dazzled at rookie minicamp

Rookie minicamp was the first chance that fledgling stars got the chance to impress. Some wilted under the pressure, while others reportedly caught the eye and gave the Washington Commanders' coaching staff plenty to think about.

According to one respected NFL Draft analyst, there is growing buzz within the building around a player who failed to hear their name called during the three-day selection event.

Undrafted free agents have no margin for error. They have to hit the ground running. One only has to look at Trey Rucker's quick-fire release to see what happens when standards aren't met immediately. He's now facing an uncertain future, but that's not the case for another defensive back looking to stake a claim.

Car'lin Vigers reportedly shone throughout Commanders' rookie minicamp

Ryan Fowler from The Draft Network, citing conversations he's had, highlighted Car’lin Vigers as someone who did his chances the world of good over Washington's rookie minicamp. It's a good start, but what comes next is even more important.

Vigers has a lot going for him. The versatile defensive back has the size and athleticism to play anywhere in the secondary. He was a shutdown presence on the boundary at Louisiana-Monroe last season, so his self-confidence is high. That's something he's taken through to a professional environment right out of the gate if Fowler's report is accurate.

It's a positive development for Vigers. However, how the player performs when the veterans get into the mix will be more telling.

They are fighting for jobs and won't want to be upstaged by an unheralded prospect looking to take their spot. This raises the stakes considerably, but Vigers seems like a level-headed character who'll take things one day and one rep at a time.

That's all he can do. Shining in the presence of other rookies and guys trying out is one thing. Doing the same versus experienced pros with proven NFL production is something else entirely.

There was a quiet sense of optimism surrounding Vigers before Washington's rookie minicamp. He's got the physical profile typically associated with defensive backs within Dan Quinn and Joe Whitt Jr.'s scheme. He's got untapped potential due to the lack of legitimate competition in college. Judging by this revelation, the Commanders might have something to mold.

It's a small step in the right direction, which was the primary goal of every rookie participating in minicamp. Vigers has his foot in the door, and any further progress could see him surge into roster consideration much sooner than expected.

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