Why is it important?

So you think all those undrafted free agents that sign next week are little more than training camp fodder. Think again. Of the 53 players listed on the Steelers roster the morning of Super Bowl XLIII, 16 -- 30.2 percent -- began their careers as undrafted free agents.

Patrick Bailey, LB: In on 16 tackles last season, mostly on special teams.

Jason Capizzi, OT: Practice squad player.

Ryan Clark, S: His 88 tackles were first in the secondary.

Carey Davis, RB: Carried 12 times for 35 yards last season.

Andre Frazier, LB: Appeared in 15 games on special teams.

James Harrison, LB: NFL defensive player of the year and, well, you know the rest.

Chris Hoke, NT: More than capable insurance behind Casey Hampton.

Travis Kirschke, DE: Career-best 46 tackles in '08.

Anthony Madison, CB: A special teams mainstay.

Willie Parker, RB: Has run for nearly 5,000 yards as Jerome Bettis' successor and earned two Super Bowl Rings.

Scott Paxson, NT: Primarily practice squad.

Jeff Reed, K: Six consecutive 100-point seasons.

Jared Retkofsky, LS: Injury to Greg Warren at midseason opened spot.

Gary Russell, FB: Only 34 carries in 2008, but two went for postseason TDs.

Darnell Stapleton, OG: Thrust into starting job by injury to Kendall Simmons.

Nate Washington, WR: Seven receptions in the postseason.