As the Minnesota Vikings gear up for training camp, all eyes are on the stars of the roster, but a lesser-known name is quietly generating buzz: undrafted free agent (UDFA) outside linebacker Tyler Batty. At 26 years old, this BYU product is no typical rookie. With a unique journey, impressive physical tools, and a hefty dose of grit, Batty might just be the Vikings’ biggest breakout discovery of the 2025 season.
At 26, Batty is already older than many NFL veterans, earning him the playful moniker of the “old man” among rookies. His age, a key reason he went undrafted, stems from a three-year LDS mission before his five-year stint at BYU. Married for over four years and raised on a Utah farm, Batty brings a maturity and life experience that set him apart from his peers. A harrowing ATV accident before high school left him with a serious head injury, yet his determination to stick with football showcases the resilience that defines him.
Despite his age, Batty’s tape and measurables make a compelling case for his potential. Standing at an imposing 6’5” and 271 pounds, with a Relative Athletic Score (RAS) of 8.76, Batty has the size and strength to compete at the NFL level. His college stats are equally eye-catching: over 53 games at BYU, he racked up 59 tackles, 7 tackles for loss (TFL), 1.5 sacks, and 2 interceptions in 2024 alone, with career totals of 16.5 sacks, 34 TFL, and three forced fumbles. These numbers scream productivity, even if his lack of elite quick-twitch athleticism kept him off draft boards.
Tyler Batty (92) is exactly my type pic.twitter.com/ZaWCvRoPe9
— Brett Kollmann (@BrettKollmann) January 11, 2025
The Vikings clearly see something special in Batty, evidenced by the $259,000 in guaranteed money they gave him — the highest among their 21 UDFA signings this spring. For context, that’s a significant investment in a player who wasn’t drafted, signaling Minnesota’s belief in his ability to compete for a roster spot. With one or possibly two spots open at outside linebacker, Batty is in a heated competition with other undrafted talents, but his physicality, experience, and relentless motor give him a real shot to stand out.
Batty’s game is built on power and persistence. While he may not dazzle with explosive burst or agility, he’s a violent, high-energy player who overwhelms opponents with his strength and versatility. Whether setting the edge against the run or rushing the passer with a variety of moves, Batty’s style draws comparisons to another Vikings UDFA, Bo Richter, a fellow defensive end known for his relentless approach. Batty’s ability to contribute on special teams further bolsters his case, as depth players who excel in multiple roles are invaluable in the NFL.
The Vikings’ outside linebacker room is a battleground, with roster spots up for grabs among a talented group of undrafted players. Batty’s college production, combined with his physical tools and the team’s financial commitment, positions him as a frontrunner in this competition. His 53 games of college experience provide a level of polish that could translate quickly to the pro game, particularly in situational roles where his size and motor can shine.
I’m going to be thinking about this hit by Tyler Batty for the next week pic.twitter.com/7WQRRfMmmS
— Nate Slack (@nateslack5) September 7, 2024
While his age might cap his long-term ceiling, Batty’s immediate impact potential is undeniable. He’s not just a feel-good story; he’s a player with the tools to make a tangible contribution in Minnesota. If he can leverage his physicality and work ethic in training camp, Batty could go from an undrafted longshot to a mainstay on the Vikings’ 53-man roster.
There’s something inherently inspiring about Tyler Batty’s journey. From overcoming a life-altering injury to balancing a three-year mission and a five-year college career, he’s proven he’s no stranger to adversity. His blue-collar upbringing on a Utah farm and his relentless playing style resonate with the hard-nosed ethos of Vikings fans. If Batty earns his place on the team, expect him to become a cult hero in Minnesota — a player who embodies the underdog spirit and leaves it all on the field.
As training camp approaches, keep an eye on Tyler Batty. This “old man” rookie might just be the Vikings’ biggest breakout discovery of 2025, ready to prove that age is just a number when you’ve got the heart, size, and motor to make it in the NFL.