Houston defensive end Eric Eiland, UConn tight end Sean McQuillan, and Kansas defensive back Kevin Short have joined the list of players eligible to be selected in next week’s supplemental draft, according to NFL VP of football communications Michael Signora (via Twitter). Signora also confirms that the draft will take place on July 9.
The supplemental draft allows NFL clubs to select players who for some reason were unable to enter the standard draft; academic trouble or disciplinary issues are often – but not always – key factors. McQuillan was charged with second-degree assault and disorderly conduct in April, while Short left the Jayhawks back in September for personal reasons.
As for Eiland, Tony Pauline of DraftInsider.net reported in February that the Cougars defensive end was “very likely” to enter the supplemental draft — he intended to enter April’s draft, but didn’t fill out the required paperwork.
The three new additions to the supplemental draft pool join Clemson offensive tackle Isaiah Battle, West Georgia defensive tackle Dalvon Stuckey, West Georgia defensive end Darrius Caldwell, and North Carolina Central receiver Adrian Wilkins. Battle has a good chance to be picked, with the Falcons among the teams reportedly eyeing him.
While Battle may come off the board next Thursday, the majority of players who enter the supplemental draft go undrafted, which allows them to become free agents and sign with any team. The last two players to be selected in the supplemental draft were Terrelle Pryor (third round, 2011) by the Raiders and Josh Gordon (second round, 2012) by the Browns.