NFL supplemental draft: Everything you need to know for 2019
The NFL supplemental draft typically doesn't stir up much action, but the annual event can provide teams a last opportunity before training camps to invest in some young talent.
Only seven players have been selected in the last nine years of the supplemental draft, and 2018 marked the first time since 2010 that two candidates (cornerback Sam Beal to the New York Giants in the third round and cornerback Adonis Alexander to the Washington Redskins in the sixth) were taken. Still, the event has produced a handful of notable names, including Hall of Fame wide receiver Cris Carter, quarterback Bernie Kosar, linebacker Brian Bosworth and wide receiver Josh Gordon, among others.
Here's the breakdown of the rules, schedule and prospects for 2019:
What is the NFL supplemental draft?
The supplemental draft serves as an additional entry point for players who wish to enter the NFL after the traditional draft in April, typically because they are facing an eligibility issue that would leave them in limbo for the upcoming season. Any entrant must apply with the league and be at least three years removed from his high school graduating class.
How does it work?
The order of the draft is determined by first separating all 32 teams into three categories: those with six or fewer wins, the remaining non-playoff teams and the playoff teams. A weighted lottery system, with the teams having the fewest wins given the best odds, is then used within those three tiers to establish an order.
Unlike the April draft, however, a bidding system is used, with teams submitting the rounds they would like to select any players. The team with the highest bid is awarded the player, with the order being used to break any potential ties. A team that successfully submits a bid and is awarded a player loses the draft pick in the corresponding round in next April's draft. If a player does not receive a bid, he becomes an unrestricted free agent.
When is the 2019 NFL supplemental draft?
July 10 at 1 p.m ET
Which players are available in the supplemental draft?
Jalen Thompson, S, Washington State: A three-year starter, Thompson tallied 190 tackles and six interceptions in his career. The 6-0, 190-pound defender was declared ineligible by the NCAA in June for the purchase of an over-the-counter supplement, the Spokesman-Review reported. NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reported he is expected to be selected in the draft.
Marcus Simms, WR, West Virginia: The 6-0, 194-pound target recorded 46 catches for 699 yards and two touchdowns last year for the Mountaineers. He also is a threat as both a kick and punt returner.
Shyheim Cullen, LB, Syracuse: The 6-0, 224-pound defender started four games last season and 31 tackles and one sack.
Bryant Perry, DB, St. Francis: Perry (6-0, 180 pounds) played just one season at St. Francis after two years at Mesabi Range College.
Devonaire Clarington, TE, Northland Community College: A four-star recruit out of high school, the 6-7, 230-pound Clarington signed with Texas but was ruled academically ineligible to play for the Longhorns.