At the tail end of the NFL draft, the final selection might be crowned with the quirky title of Mr. Irrelevant, but for those chosen just a few picks earlier, the media spotlight isn’t quite as bright. Despite that, many late-round draft picks and undrafted players are making significant impacts on their teams, including the Kansas City Chiefs and the San Francisco 49ers.
“I had no idea where I was going. If you had told me I went undrafted, I would be like, ‘Makes sense, sure. I got it,’” said Chiefs guard Nick Allegretti, a seventh-round pick in 2019, reflecting on his draft experience. Despite a lackluster college win record, Allegretti’s self-confidence never wavered.
Brock Purdy’s ascension from the very last draft pick to becoming a Super Bowl starting quarterback has captured the spotlight, but numerous other late-stage draft selections and undrafted talents have proven their worth for both the Chiefs and the 49ers. Their stories serve as a testament to the notion that NFL stardom isn’t solely reserved for early-round draftees.
Selected 216th overall by Kansas City, Allegretti, out of Illinois, now celebrates two Super Bowl titles with the Chiefs. A key component this postseason, he admirably stepped in for injured All-Pro Joe Thuney during the AFC championship game.
Chiefs’ running back Isiah Pacheco, snagged in the seventh round of the 2022 draft, stands just 11 spots above the spot where the 49ers found Purdy. To date, Pacheco has accumulated 1,765 yards and 12 touchdowns across two seasons, embodying the notion that a player’s draft number doesn’t always correlate with their potential.
Some argue that it might be better to go undrafted than be a late-round pick, allowing for greater freedom in choosing the right team. Still, for Pacheco, lining up beside Patrick Mahomes in Kansas City has been a dream scenario.
Undrafted players carry with them a tale of perseverance and relentless determination. A shining example is Kurt Warner, who once earned Super Bowl MVP honors without being selected in the draft. Similarly, Jake Brendel, undrafted out of UCLA, is now the 49ers’ starting center and in his eighth NFL season.
The narrative continues with San Francisco safety Tashaun Gipson, who, after joining the league undrafted and accumulating 174 starts over 12 seasons across five teams, is making his first Super Bowl appearance. For Gipson, his undrafted status has consistently fueled his drive to succeed in the NFL.
Reflecting on his journey, Allegretti appreciates the opportunity he’s had with the Chiefs, attributing much of his success to the organization and its leadership. “The fact I got an opportunity in Kansas City’s been incredible — the organization, coach (Andy) Reid, (offensive line) coach (Andy) Heck. Awesome men to play for,” he said.
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AP Sports Writer Mark Anderson contributed from Henderson, Nevada.
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FAQ Section
Q: Who is “Mr. Irrelevant” in the context of the NFL draft?
A: Mr. Irrelevant is a nickname given to the last player selected in the NFL draft. Despite the humorous title, some Mr. Irrelevant selections have gone on to have impactful NFL careers.
Q: Can undrafted players be successful in the NFL?
A: Yes, many undrafted players have had very successful NFL careers, with some even earning Pro Bowl selections and Super Bowl MVP honors.
Q: How have late picks or undrafted players impacted the Chiefs and 49ers specifically?
A: Players like Nick Allegretti and Isiah Pacheco for the Chiefs, and Jake Brendel and Tashaun Gipson for the 49ers, have greatly contributed to their respective teams, showcasing that talent can be found beyond early draft rounds.
Conclusion Section
The journeys of players like Brock Purdy, Nick Allegretti, Isiah Pacheco, Jake Brendel, and Tashaun Gipson highlight the unpredictable nature of talent and success in the NFL. These late-round picks and undrafted athletes are a testament to the idea that brilliance can emerge from any draft position. Their stories underscore the importance of perseverance, seizing opportunities, and finding the right team fit. As they’ve shown, regardless of where a player starts, with dedication and the right circumstances, reaching the pinnacle of football success is a tangible dream.
