Undrafted and unfazed. Former Iowa linebacker Jay Higgins is trying to carve out a professional career after going undrafted in the 2025 NFL Draft.
After being an anchor for the Iowa defense over the past two seasons, Higgins was knocked during the pre-draft and combine processes for his lack of speed and athleticism, causing him to fall out of the draft.
In his analysis for NFL.com, analyst Lance Zierlein mentioned that despite Higgins's lack of speed and lateral quickness, he was able to rack up tackles. Zierlein also noted that he lacks the length and quick-twitch ability to get downhill and shed blocks.
All Iowa football fans know how crucial Higgins was to the Iowa defense, and even with the scathing pre-draft analysis, he was going to work hard to make an impact for whatever team signed him.
During Thursday night's preseason game against the Indianapolis Colts, Higgins made the most of his opportunity.
Making his presence felt in Baltimore!
— Hawkeye Football (@HawkeyeFootball) August 8, 2025
Let’s go @_jhigg!#NFLHawks
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Higgins got into the game late, but made his presence felt. He intercepted a drastically underthrown pass by Colts quarterback Riley Leonard and helped seal the victory for the Ravens.
Even though he is currently listed as the No. 3 middle linebacker on the Ravens' depth chart, Higgins saw game action on Thursday and tallied three total tackles and an interception.
Before becoming a star for the Iowa defense, Higgins had to wait his turn behind fellow star middle linebacker Jack Campbell, and worked hard to get where he is today.
If he continues to grind and improve, the Ravens might have found a gem in the undrafted free agent pool.