NFL rule change proves the Steelers may have snagged an absolute steal after signing UDFA tryout following rookie minicamp

Max Hurleman came to Notre Dame last offseason with only a year of eligibility remaining from Colgate. He was an All-Patriot League First Team special teamer, and that was going to be his main role with the Fighting Irish. While Hurleman played running back for Colgate, he transitioned to defensive back for the Fighting Irish. He served as a backup nickel for Notre Dame, but wasn’t able to create a role for himself on defense.

Hurleman was a consistent punt returner for the team. He isn’t a dynamic athlete, so he was back there more for dependability to field punts. As a coverage player, Hurleman made his impact felt. He is a pretty good straight line athlete and made an impact covering kicks and punts. If he’s going to make a roster on the next level, or even a practice squad, his impact on special teams will be a big reason why.

- Ryan Roberts, A to Z Sports Notre Dame

The NFL first adopted the dynamic kickoff rule to promote a safer play. Kickoffs have long been one of the most injury-prone snaps in the league. But the rule didn't exactly lead to a more dynamics in the return game so the NFL changed it a few months ago to include the following:

• Modify the alignment requirements for receiving team players in the setup zone
• Change the dead ball spot after a touchback to the 35-yard line if the ball lands in the end zone and is downed in the end zone by the receiving team or goes out of bounds behind the receiving team’s goal line

Hurleman undoubtedly faces an uphill battle to make the team when you consider the Steelers have listed him at RB, and the team already employs Kaleb Johnson, Jaylen Warren, Trey Sermon, and his competition, Cordarrelle Patterson. 

But we have seen UDFAs beat out veterans before, and Hurleman could be next in line after his successful tryout over the weekend.