The 2023 NFL Draft has come and gone. In all, 259 prospects had been drafted though many extra hoped to listen to their identify referred to as over the weekend. The dream of enjoying within the NFL doesn’t finish for them, as for the Atlanta Falcons, six undrafted rookies have been signed and have a chance to show themselves this summer time. Broad receiver was an vital want for the Falcons which wasn’t addressed within the current draft, however three of the Falcons’ six UDFA signings had been receivers.

For the third consecutive yr, my undrafted free agent collection returns as I try to permit the followers to get to know the UDFAs the workforce indicators a bit higher. Lately, I’ve spoken with Caleb Huntley, Dorian Etheridge, and Ryan Neuzil who’re on the workforce’s roster. To kick off my 2023 UDFA collection, I had the pleasure of talking with broad receiver Xavier Malone, and requested him some questions to permit the followers to get to know him a bit higher.

How did Henderson State aid you obtain your purpose of turning into an NFL participant?

I might say experiencing the issues I went to whereas at Henderson. You realize, shedding family members via the method actually gave me extra causes to chase my goals. I used to be blessed to be round some guys that beloved the sport as a lot as me.

Favourite second enjoying for Henderson State?

My favourite second is most undoubtedly the Battle Of The Ravine sport towards our rivals (Ouachita Baptist) from throughout the road. Coming from a small faculty that sport is only a completely different feeling and I truly threw my first profession landing.

Is there any sure participant you mannequin your sport on? Favourite participant?

I really feel prefer it’s no want to repeat others play as a result of all people has their very own fashion. I had a pair guys I grew up liking to look at reminiscent of Adrian Peterson, Percy Harvin, Cordarrelle Patterson, Randy — I might maintain going.

What do you want most about soccer normally?

The grind it takes to win, and regardless that there’s magnificence in shedding too, the grind is what makes all of it value it. There’s no manner across the grind to achieve success. If you would like it, you’ll ensure you work exhausting sufficient to get it.

What do you convey to the Atlanta Falcons?

I can convey a number of issues to this group, I really feel like, all people sees the pace but it surely’s far more to it, my YAC and break tackles exhibits. I’m a smaller man that may go up and win 50/50 balls with taller DB’s. Even coming into the league I really feel as if my ceiling remains to be excessive as a result of I haven’t had prime notch amenities or coaching.

How acquainted are you with the Falcons’ franchise?

I really feel I’m fairly acquainted with it. After all, watching [Michael] Vick and Julio [Jones] once I was youthful simply made me watch a bit extra.

Did you could have affords to signal with different groups, and what made the Falcons appear to be an excellent match for you?

Sure, I had a pair. I used to be at all times acquainted with Atlanta but it surely was simply lots of prayer and ideas that went into my choice. I’m glad I made the selection!

I’ve to agree with Xavier, I’m glad he made the selection of signing with the Falcons, too. After two seasons at Northeast Mississippi Group Faculty, Malone transferred to D2 Henderson State, the place he performed from 2021-2022. In two seasons and simply 22 video games for the Reddies, Malone recorded 135 receptions for two,352 yards and 18 touchdowns. He ranks third all-time at Henderson State in profession receiving yards, fourth in touchdowns and fifth in receptions.

Though as he talked about, he’s a smaller receiver, measuring in unofficially at 5’8, Malone has elite pace (4.36s 40) and explosiveness, which may be very welcome on a workforce that might use each. Malone is certainly somebody to keep watch over this summer time in camp and has an actual alternative in my eyes to land on the 53 man roster when it’s all mentioned and accomplished.