When Alex Bars went undrafted it was somewhat surprising. Sure, Bars was a player recovering from an ACL tear the season prior. However, his talent on the field said a potential late second or third-round pick. What was not surprising was the Chicago Bears signed him.
Bars played at Notre Dame, where Harry Hiestand once coached. Bars best play came with Hiestand the year prior to him tearing his ACL. The relationship was obvious, the Bears met with him pre-draft, and when he was a UDFA, it was all but done.
Of course, knowing a coach does not get on the roster.