By Aidan Bostic (Bostic_Aidan) – Reporter
The Spartans had a couple undrafted free-agent signings and minicamp invites following an exciting 2022 NFL Draft.
SJSU tight end Derrick Deese Jr., signed a contract with the Detroit Lions as an undrafted free agent and he will try to make a name for himself in the Motor City. Lions tight end T.J. Hockenson was the starting tight end on the roster, but he is questionable with a thumb injury.
Lions’ backup tight ends Brock Wright and Garrett Griffin had 16 combined receptions in the 2021 season, and it seems the backup tight end position in Detroit may be up for grabs. Both Wright and Griffin are taller and heavier than Deese, but Deese may be quicker off the line, making him a threat on offense.
Spartans offensive guard, Jack Synder, signed a contract with the Los Angeles Rams as an undrafted free agent. Snyder joins former San Jose State guard Jeremiah Kolone on the roster.
The Rams also drafted Wisconsin right guard Logan Bruss in the third round with the 104th pick. The 2021 Super Bowl champions are trying to increase their guard depth and Snyder will be a helpful addition.
SJSU quarterback, Nick Starkel, received minicamp invites from the New York Jets and Dallas Cowboys. The Jets struggled with Zach Wilson over the course of the 2021 season and they need a strong backup going into the 2022 season. Veteran backup Joe Flacco is no longer in his prime and third-string quarterback, Mike White, is no more promising than Wilson.
The Cowboys on the other hand, have Dak Prescott who will retain his starting position, but backup Will Grier is questionable with a knee injury which may open a position for Starkel.
Spartans’ safety, Tre Webb, was invited to the Atlanta Falcons minicamp. The Falcons lack depth at the safety position and starting free safety Erik Harris is questionable with a torn pectoral. Webb may have an opportunity to fit himself into the lineup with a couple vacant positions and no standouts in the secondary.
These SJSU athletes are embracing the next step in their careers and are hoping that they can solidify their spots on each respective roster.