NFL supplemental draft to return after three-year absence

The COVID-19 pandemic forced the cancelation of the 2020 draft, and the NFL chose not to hold it in 2021 or 2022 as, under CBA rules, the league can opt out if it chooses. 

To be considered for the supplemental draft, players must be at least three years removed from high school and be ineligible for the upcoming collegiate season for one reason or another. Of course, players must also formally request to be included, though there's no guarantee of NFL approval.   

Unlike the NFL Draft order, decided by the standings, the supplemental draft breaks teams into three groups. Teams with six wins or fewer get the first shot at eligible players, followed by non-playoff teams with six or more wins. Finally, the remaining 14 teams that qualified for the playoffs are on the board. 

First held in 1977, the supplemental draft has produced busts and success stories, from the hyped-up Brian Bosworth to Hall of Fame wideout Cris Carter. Eight picks have become Pro Bowlers, the most recent being supremely talented wideout Josh Gordon in 2012. 

Meanwhile, Washington State safety Jalen Thompson was the last player chosen in a supplemental draft, selected in the fifth round by the Arizona Cardinals. A four-year veteran, Thompson started all 17 games for the Cardinals in 2022 and recently signed a three-year, $36 million deal to stay in Arizona.