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Every week. Every day. Every practice. Every snap.

This is an undrafted rookie's credo, because each must prove himself every step of the way. Once a player doesn't hear his name called during NFL draft weekend, he's operating at a disadvantage. Thus, his on-field play must determine whether he'll have an NFL career.

Tomorrow isn't given; it must be earned. The league's undrafted free agents understand this better than most.

First impressions mean a lot, but teams have moved beyond rookie camp into organized team activities. This is an important step in the process, because all of a team's first-year players start to ingratiate themselves in the locker room and work alongside the veterans.

With something to prove, a few undrafted free agents came to the forefront during the voluntary practice sessions. The NFL is considered the ultimate meritocracy. A coaching staff and front office want to put the best players on the field—whether or not they were drafted.

These eight players elevated expectations going into mandatory minicamps and placed themselves in a position to earn a roster spot by taking advantage of the opportunities provided and performing better than others.