Standout UDFAs through first week of training camp: Chiefs lineman, Chargers CBs making waves

ESPN Chargers reporter Kris Rhim highlighted both in his notes from the fifth day of camp, writing that Smith, who led FBS in pass breakups (25) over the past two seasons, "had one of his strongest days" of practice with a deflection and interception, while Shelley (5-11, 180 pounds) had "multiple pass breakups and was consistently in good position in coverage."

Cleveland Browns wide receiver Kole Wilson

Wilson (5-7, 177 pounds) makes up for a diminutive frame with outstanding agility and explosiveness, making him one of the more fascinating prospects to monitor during camp and the preseason.

Wilson first grabbed attention during June's mandatory minicamp, going deep for a reception during 7-on-7 drills. On Wednesday, he made a nice catch in traffic on an intermediate route.

After the Browns spent first- and second-round 2026 draft picks on wideouts KC Concepcion and Denzel Boston, respectively, Wilson must continue to impress to earn a spot on the 53-man roster. But early in camp, he's certainly giving the coaching staff something to consider.

Green Bay Packers wide receiver J. Michael Sturdivant

Sturdivant was never able to replicate his redshirt freshman season over his final three years in college, but he's consistently made plays for the Packers during the early portion of camp.

On Tuesday, he won a 1-on-1 rep against corner Keisean Nixon to continue a strong showing as he vies for a possible WR4 role.

In his report from Packers camp, ESPN's Ben Solak mentioned Sturdivant (6-2, 207 pounds) as a player "who looks like a keeper" while he competes with Savion Williams, Bo Melton and Skyy Moore for a spot on the active roster. He's also been spotted as a gunner on special teams, adding to his value.

"The Packers' wideout depth is as thin as I can remember," Solak noted, increasing the likelihood of Sturdivant making the cut. 

New England Patriots linebacker Khalil Jacobs

Christian Elliss and Robert Spillane are entrenched as New England's base 3-4 starting inside linebackers, but Jacobs, who had 47 tackles (five for loss) and three sacks at Missouri in 2025, is challenging for a backup role. The Boston Herald's Doug Kyed recently listed Jacobs (6-1, 227 pounds) as a third-stringer but wrote veteran K.J. Britt, who signed for the veteran minimum in free agency, "needs to fend [him] off...for the fourth linebacker spot."