STARKVILLE — While it’s been barely two days since the 2020 NFL Draft’s completion, a number of former Mississippi State players have discovered their professional destinations.
In addition to the five Bulldogs that were selected in the draft’s seven rounds, another nine MSU products have inked free agent deals since its completion.
Of note, defensive end Chauncey Rivers and interior offensive lineman Darryl Williams will join former teammates in Baltimore and Kansas City, respectively.
Rivers heads to the Ravens along with third round selection Tyre Phillips. Having spent time together at East Mississippi Community College in addition to their time in Starkville, the east coast reunion is a welcome one.
As for Williams, he joins Starkville native Willie Gay Jr. — the highest drafted MSU player in this year’s event (Round 2, Pick 63) — and the defending Super Bowl Champion Chiefs. Originally slotted as a fourth or fifth round pick, Williams’ fall to undrafted free agent was a relative surprise. That said, he’s expected to be well compensated. NFL.com’s Tom Pelissero reported Saturday that Williams would receive $107,000 in guaranteed money plus a $7,000 signing bonus.
Other UDFA deals included safety Jaquarius Landrews and Stephen Guidry heading to the NFC East. Landrews joins a New York Giants team coached by former MSU quarterback and graduate assistant Joe Judge, while Guidry is off to Texas as a member of the Dallas Cowboys.
Fellow wideout, Isaiah Zuber inked a deal with the New England Patriots. After a mixed season at MSU following a standout career at Kansas State, Zuber brings high-upside on special teams to coach Bill Belichick’s squad.
Also in the AFC, linebacker Leo Lewis will join the Pittsburgh Steelers and tight end Farrod Green has become a member of the Indianapolis Colts.
Rounding out the group, offensive lineman Tommy Champion is joining the Seattle Seahawks after starting six games as a senior and defensive tackle Lee Autry is set to become a Chicago Bear after he was suspended eight games for his role in the academic misconduct scandal that also sidelined Gay.
Ben Portnoy reports on Mississippi State sports for The Dispatch. Follow him on Twitter at @bportnoy15.
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