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Washington Commanders sign prized FSU Football defender after draft
The Florida State Seminoles sent multiple players into the NFL during this year’s draft class, including cornerback Azareye’h Thomas (pick No. 73, New York Jets) and defensive tackle Joshua Farmer (pick No. 137, New England Patriots). The ‘Noles also saw All-American placekicker Ryan Fitzgerald land with the Carolina Panthers as an undrafted free agent and quarterback DJ Uiagalelei touch down in Los Angeles with the Chargers.
The latest of FSU’s haul into the next level is defensive back Fentrell Cypress II, who will reportedly end up with the Washington Commanders, per The Draft Network’s Ryan Fowler.
Cypress transferred from Virginia to FSU ahead of the 2023 season. He’s appeared in 42 games over his collegiate career, totaling 125 tackles, 27 passes defended, four tackles for loss, two fumble recoveries, and one interception.
READ MORE: Ex-Florida State quarterback sends five-word message to Los Angeles Chargers
The Rock Hill, South Carolina native posted impressive numbers at Florida State’s Pro Day, clocking a 4.43-second 40-yard dash, recording a 38-inch vertical jump, and a 10-foot-3 broad jump. He also ran a 6.84-second three-cone drill, ranking above average for the cornerback position.
An All-ACC honoree, he suffered a season-ending injury in 2024 that limited him to nine games, but the Commanders appear to be confident in his health.
The Commanders drafted Ole Miss cornerback Trey Amos with the No. 61 pick in the second round, who is considered an ‘elite corner’ by Pro Football Focus, and the two will join star corner Marshon Lattimore in a secondary that allowed the third-fewest yards in the league in 2024.
Commanders quietly make 6 roster moves immediately after 2025 NFL Draft
The Washington Commanders had a more relaxed 2025 NFL Draft than in previous years. Adam Peters boasted just five picks and resisted the urge to trade down. He focused on finding quality prospects over moving back for the sake of it. And the returns were promising.
Peters’ hard work didn’t stop once the draft concluded. The front-office leader was frantically working the phones for undrafted free agents who fit the profile. Washington got two such prospects last year who made the 53-man roster, so it’s a stage where rough diamonds can be found.
The Commanders quietly made six new additions to the roster, with more anticipated in the coming days before preparations for the 2025 campaign gather pace. Let’s look at which prospects Peters acquired and their potential aspirations.
Commanders sign six undrafted free agents immediately after the 2025 NFL Draft
Tim McKay
- Offensive Line | North Carolina State Wolfpack
The Commanders shelled out decent money for Tim McKay compared to most rookies who fail to hear their names called. Reports suggest he was a hot commodity on the undrafted free-agent market, so those in power must see something in the player that can be molded into more.
There are some athletic limitations where McKay is concerned. However, he’s a versatile chess piece with a well-put-together frame and a sound technical platform to build.
Fentrell Cypress II
- Cornerback | Florida State Seminoles
Despite drafting Trey Amos in the second round, the Commanders focused heavily on secondary reinforcements in undrafted free agency. Fentrell Cypress II arguably comes with the most promise, with his competitive edge and knack for being around the football consistently traits that head coach Dan Quinn typically looks for in his defensive backs.
Establishing himself in the cornerback room will be difficult. The Commanders have five all but locked into the roster, so it’ll take a huge effort from Cypress or anyone else.
Ricky Barber
- Defensive Line | UCF Knights
Bolstering the defensive trenches went overlooked during the draft. Peters moved swiftly to get Ricky Barber in undrafted free agency, who comes with some solid production in college both as a pass-rusher and against the run.
