Cowboys UDFA With Best Chance To Make Roster: Brevyn Spann-Ford

The Dallas Cowboys agreed to terms with 12 undrafted free agents after the 2024 NFL Draft. Former Minnesota tight end Brevyn Spann-Ford was the most recognizable signing. Spann-Ford possesses a terrific opportunity to make the Cowboys’ initial 53-man roster coming out of training camp and the preseason.

The Cowboys made Spann-Ford one of the highest-paid undrafted free agents, signing him to a contract that contains $245,000 in total guarantees. In some cases, it's more lucrative than what a sixth or seventh-round selection earns. It signaled Dallas’ interest level in securing Spann-Ford's signature and increased his chances of making the roster.

Spann-Ford was one of the more well-known prospects to go undrafted. The Golden Gophers standout received an invitation to compete in Mobile at this year’s Senior Bowl. Spann-Ford scored a touchdown in the game, concluding a productive week.

Spann-Ford didn't test particularly well at the NFL Combine. The St. Cloud, Minnesota native ran the 40 in a lackluster 4.77 seconds. The 24-year-old also posted poor agility scores, running a 4.51 shuttle and 7.38 3-cone. Spann-Ford had a 31.5-inch vertical and a 9-foot-8 broad jump—a less-than-ideal athletic profile contributed to his undrafted status.

The Cowboys likely possess a clear plan for Spann-Ford. At Minnesota, he thrived as a primary "Y" tight end with the size and alignment versatility to positively impact P.J. Fleck's offense. Spann-Ford is an expert in-line blocker who was arguably the best blocking tight end in the 2024 class.

Spann-Ford is extremely comfortable with his hand in the dirt via a three-point stance, a rare trait for a college tight end nowadays. Spann-Ford attacks the chest plate of defenders with purpose when utilized as a run blocker. He's a technically refined blocker who will clear rushing lanes for Ezekiel Elliott in 2024.

There's untapped potential in Spann-Ford's skill set as a receiver. This past campaign, Spann-Ford recorded just 25 receptions for 239 yards and two touchdowns. He posted career-highs in 2022, totaling 42 catches for 497 yards and two scores. He’s a towering presence in the red zone at 6-foot-6 and 260 pounds.

The Cowboys have some decisions to sort through at tight end. Jake Ferguson has developed into a go-to player at the position after posting 71 receptions for 761 yards and five touchdowns last season. Dallas also utilized a premium second-round selection in the 2023 NFL Draft on Luke Schoonmaker, and he should be more involved in 2024.

Spann-Ford may pose the biggest threat to Peyton Hendershot's roster spot. A former undrafted free agent himself, Hendershot has made the Cowboys' 53-man roster for two years in a row. An ankle injury derailed his 2023 campaign, however, and he only appeared in eight games.

The Cowboys also have John Stephens Jr. on the roster, a 2023 undrafted free agent who dazzled throughout last year's training camp before tearing his ACL during the preseason. Stephens Jr. is another wild card that will push for a role. The Cowboys may roster four tight ends.

The Cowboys aggressively pursued Spann-Ford's signature in undrafted free agency. He possesses a clear path to the 53-man roster. The onus is on Spann-Ford to take advantage of his opportunity.