Packers surprising rookie appears close to special breakthrough, and latest update reinforces growing excitement
Florida wide receiver J. Michael Sturdivant signed a standard three-year, undrafted rookie contract with the Packers right after the draft.
The Green Bay Packers drafted only six players this year, but that doesn’t necessarily mean the roster didn’t get an influx of young talent. Right after the draft, the Packers signed Florida wide receiver J. Michael Sturdivant as an undrafted player.
For many, he’s one of the top values in the UDFA class — and that’s exactly how a team with so few picks in a year should generate extra value.
A valuable addition to the WR room
Bleacher Report‘s Gary Davenport created a list with the most exciting undrafted players for each team in 2026. Unsurprisingly, it’s J. Michael Sturdivant for the Packers.
“The signing of any undrafted free agent is a dart throw, but the Packers got a value in the eyes of many in wide receiver J. Michael Sturdivant.
“Sturdivant’s route-running needs work, and his collegiate production never matched his potential. But that potential as a boundary receiver is undeniable, and he was widely expected to be drafted in the middle of Day 3.” — Gary Davenport
Intriguing potential
It’s not a surprise that many people around the NFL world are excited about Sturdivant because several draft analysts had him as a draftable prospect.
But even the Packers themselves put their money where their mouth is. When the team signed Sturdivant as an undrafted free agent, the rookie received $200,000 in contract guarantees. That essentially secures him at least a practice squad spot, increases his chances of making the 53-man roster, but ultimately shows the Packers had a lot of trust in his potential to become a real NFL player.
Sturdivant played five college seasons — two at California, two at UCLA, and the final one at Florida. His best season in terms of production happened in 2022 at Cal, with 65 catches for 755 yards and seven touchdowns. Last year, the receiver had 27 catches for 406 yards and three TDs.