Penn State's Undrafted Players Take Flight in Free Agency
After the 2023 NFL Draft, in which six Penn State players were selected, those undrafted quickly turn to free agency. And several Lions have signed free-agent deals with NFL teams.
Here's a running catalog of Penn State's free-agency signees.
Jonathan Sutherland to the Seahawks
Sutherland, a starter at safety and linebacker and four-time captain, signed with the Seattle Seahawks. Sutherland played in nearly 60 games at Penn State and brings position flexibility to Seattle, along with significant special teams experience.
"The Seattle Seahawks are getting a guy who is versatile and can help a defense in many ways," Penn State defensive coordinator Manny Diaz said in a statement.
Chris Stoll to the Seahawks
Seattle plucked another specialist from the Lions in Stoll, who was named college football's long snapper of the year in 2022. Stoll plays a very specific position that's difficult to crack in the NFL. But the veteran could be a long-term starter in the right situation.
"I really can't say enough good things about Chris, and I know he will be ready for his chance to snap in the NFL," special teams coordinator Stacy Collins said in a statement.
Mitchell Tinsley to the Commanders
Tinsley followed Jahan Dotson in wearing No. 5 at Penn State. Now he's joining Dotson with the Washington Commanders. Tinsley, who transferred to Penn State from Western Kentucky, led Penn State with 51 receptions last season and scored five touchdowns.
PJ Mustipher to the Broncos
Mustipher going undrafted was surprising, considering the productive career he had at Penn State. But Mustipher landed a strong opportunity in Denver, which is getting a defensive tackle who doesn't always make the box score but does occupy space and linemen, giving his teammates room to make plays.
As NFL Draft Bible said of Mustipher, he can control linemen like "crash-test dummies" and absorbs double teams well. "The two-time team captain has been praised for his football intelligence and he can be an immediate impact player," NFL Draft Bible said.
Among the Lions who had not announced signings as of Saturday night were defensive end Nick Tarburton, kicker Jake Pinegar and punter Barney Amor.
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