Where did former Colorado State football players go as NFL free agents?

The Colorado State Rams have produced numerous talented football players who have gone on to make an impact in the NFL. While some were drafted, others carved out successful careers as undrafted free agents (UDFAs) or through free-agent signings. In this article, we’ll explore where some of the most notable former Colorado State football players have landed in the NFL as free agents, highlighting their journeys and contributions to the league.

1. Shaquil Barrett – From Undrafted Free Agent to Super Bowl Champion

One of the most successful former Colorado State players in recent memory, Shaquil Barrett, went undrafted in the 2014 NFL Draft before signing with the Denver Broncos as a free agent.

Denver Broncos (2014–2018): Barrett developed into a key rotational pass rusher, contributing to the Broncos’ Super Bowl 50-winning defense.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2019–Present): After leaving Denver, Barrett signed a one-year “prove-it” deal with the Buccaneers and exploded with a league-leading 19.5 sacks in 2019. His performance earned him a long-term contract, and he played a crucial role in Tampa Bay’s Super Bowl LV victory.

Barrett’s journey from an undrafted free agent to a two-time Pro Bowler and Super Bowl champion is one of the best success stories in CSU football history.

2. Rashard Higgins – Reliable Receiver Finds New Opportunities

Rashard “Hollywood” Higgins was a standout receiver at Colorado State but was drafted in the fifth round of the 2016 NFL Draft by the Cleveland Browns. After his initial contract, he became a free agent multiple times.

Cleveland Browns (2016–2021): Higgins developed into a dependable target, particularly for Baker Mayfield, and was a key contributor during the Browns’ 2020 playoff run.
Carolina Panthers (2022): Signed as a free agent but saw limited playing time.
Current Status: Higgins has remained a free agent but continues to train for another NFL opportunity.

Higgins’ ability to make contested catches and his chemistry with quarterbacks make him a valuable depth receiver when healthy.

3. Michael Gallup – Overcoming Injuries, Staying Productive

Michael Gallup was a third-round pick in the 2018 NFL Draft, but after his rookie contract, he became a free agent before re-signing with the Dallas Cowboys.

Dallas Cowboys (2018–2021): Gallup emerged as a reliable No. 2 receiver alongside Amari Cooper and CeeDee Lamb, surpassing 1,000 yards in 2019.
Re-signed with Cowboys (2022–Present): Despite an ACL injury in 2021, Gallup secured a five-year, $57.5 million contract extension. He has since worked to regain his pre-injury form.

Gallup’s story is one of resilience, proving that even after major injuries, former CSU players can secure lucrative deals in free agency.

4. Preston Williams – Undrafted but Showed Early Promise

Preston Williams was one of the most talented receivers in CSU history but went undrafted in 2019 due to off-field concerns.

Miami Dolphins (2019–2021): Williams signed as a UDFA and quickly became a starter, showing flashes of brilliance before injuries derailed his progress.
Carolina Panthers (2022): Signed to the practice squad but was later released.
Current Status: Williams remains a free agent but has the talent to earn another NFL opportunity if he stays healthy.

Williams’ early success demonstrates that undrafted CSU players can still make an immediate impact in the league.

5. Trey McBride – Rising Tight End with a Bright Future

Though Trey McBride was a second-round pick in 2022, his trajectory shows how CSU players can quickly become key NFL contributors.

Arizona Cardinals (2022–Present): After a quiet rookie year, McBride broke out in 2023, becoming one of the team’s top receiving threats.
Future Outlook: McBride is on track to be one of the NFL’s best tight ends, proving that CSU continues to develop high-level talent.

While not a free-agent signing, McBride’s success reinforces the pipeline of CSU players to the NFL.

6. Toby McBride – Undrafted but Still Fighting for a Spot

Toby McBride (Trey’s older brother) went undrafted in 2021 but has pursued an NFL career through free agency.

Denver Broncos (2021): Signed as a UDFA but was released during training camp.
Current Status: Toby has explored opportunities in other leagues, including the USFL, hoping for another NFL chance.

His journey highlights the challenges undrafted CSU players face but also their determination to keep playing professionally.

7. Deonte Clyburn – From CSU to the NFL’s Fringes

Deonte Clyburn, a former CSU linebacker, went undrafted in 2018 but signed with the Atlanta Falcons.

Atlanta Falcons (2018): Spent time on the practice squad before being released.
Other Opportunities: Clyburn has since played in the XFL and other alternative leagues.

While he hasn’t stuck in the NFL, Clyburn represents the many CSU players who get a shot at the highest level.

8. Ellison Hubbard – Recent Undrafted Free Agent Signing

Ellison Hubbard, a defensive tackle, went undrafted in 2023 but signed with the New York Giants.

New York Giants (2023–Present): Hubbard is competing for a roster spot as a developmental defensive lineman.

His progress will be one to watch, as he could follow in the footsteps of other successful CSU defensive linemen in the NFL.

9. Cam Butler – A Recent Free Agent Hopeful

Cam Butler, a tight end from CSU, went undrafted in 2023 and signed with the Las Vegas Raiders.

Las Vegas Raiders (2023): Butler was waived but remains a candidate for practice squad opportunities.

Like many UDFAs, Butler will need time to develop, but his athleticism gives him a chance.

10. Other Notable Former CSU Free Agents

Several other former Rams have had brief NFL stints as free agents, including:

Dalyn Dawkins (RB): Signed with the Tennessee Titans as a UDFA in 2018, spent time on practice squads.
Nick Stevens (QB): Briefly signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2018 but didn’t make the roster.
Bisi Johnson (WR): Drafted in 2019 but later became a free agent, signing with the Detroit Lions in 2022.

These players exemplify the grind many CSU alumni face in trying to secure and maintain NFL careers.

Conclusion: CSU’s NFL Free Agent Legacy

Colorado State may not be a traditional NFL powerhouse, but its players have repeatedly proven they belong in the league—whether drafted or signed as free agents. From Shaquil Barrett’s superstar rise to Preston Williams’ flashes of brilliance, CSU alumni have shown that talent and opportunity can lead to success.

As the NFL continues to evolve, more Rams will get their shot. Whether through the draft or free agency, Colorado State’s football program remains a valuable pipeline to professional football.

For current and future CSU players, the message is clear: hard work and perseverance can turn an undrafted free-agent contract into a long and successful NFL career.