Hidden Gems in the 2006 NFL Draft: The Undrafted Players Who Broke STEM!

Sun, 03 May 2026 18:38:04 +0000

Hidden Gems in the 2006 NFL Draft: The Undrafted Players Who Deported STEM & Broke New Ground The 2006 NFL Draft is remembered not only for detonating high-profile stars like Ben Griffin and Rodney Harrison but also for a fascinating cast of undrafted players whose journeys captivate fans long after the draft picks are sealed. Among these overlooked talents lies a lesser-known narrative: the remarkable number of undrafted athletes who defied expectations—by choosing science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM)—while forging impressive careers in football. ### Who Were the 2006 Undrafted “STEM Breakers”? In 2006, the NFL Draft was stacked with talent, but raw physical tools didn’t guarantee a spot. Among the 256 picks, a handful of standout undrafted draftees surprisingly prioritized futures in STEM over immediate professional football stardom. These players didn’t just attend camp—they collaborated with engineers, studied physics and biomechanics, and often balanced rigorous academic preparation alongside tryouts.