The NFL offseason saw some unexpected moments, from Shedeur Sanders’ draft surprise to Aaron Rodgers’ move to Pittsburgh, along with subtler shifts that may heavily influence the upcoming season. Rookie and lesser-known players competed fiercely during OTAs and mini-camps, vying for starting roles and critical backup positions, with training camp set to start on July 12th.
Among the notable AFC East standouts is LB Joe Andreessen for Buffalo, who impressed in minicamp and gained more playtime due to injuries on the team. Miami’s LB Grayson Murphy showed promise with his pass-rushing skills despite his past injury reserve stint. Patriots’ WR Efton Chism III, an undrafted free agent, gained the quarterback’s trust with his speed, hands, and spatial awareness, positioning himself as a potential roster spot contender. The Jets’ WR Josh Reynolds, despite a challenging previous season with injuries, is a strong candidate for a WR2 role.
In AFC North, Baltimore’s WR Devontez Walker emerged as consistent in spring practice and looks poised to increase his role in the passing game. Cincinnati’s WR Jermaine Burton, criticized for a poor rookie year, showed dedication and growth in offseason training. Cleveland’s WR Jamaris Slashes took advantage of opportunities to become a reliable option. Pittsburgh’s WR Calvin Austin III impressed with steady contributions despite missing his rookie year due to injury, aiming to build rapport with new QB Aaron Rodgers.
In the AFC South, Houston rookie WR Jaden Higgins demonstrated his downfield skills at OTAs and is expected to compete for a key role at training camp. The Colts’ CB Justin Walley showed aggressive coverage and instincts, earning praise as a potential defensive role player. Jacksonville CB Montaric Brown solidified his spot during offseason and minicamp. Tennessee LB Cody Barton quickly became a defensive leader with vocal commands and impactful plays.
The AFC West highlights Broncos WR Pat Bryant, who earned playing time through physicality and contested catches. Chiefs RB Bra Shard Smith impressed with speed and versatility after transitioning from receiver in college. Las Vegas WR Dont’e Thornton Jr., a top draft pick, showed readiness to contribute significantly alongside another rookie. Chargers TE Orond Gadsden II became a favored target for QB Justin Herbert, showcasing his unique combination of size and speed.
In the NFC East, Cowboys CB Kaiir Elam showed flashes of his potential with interceptions and solid coverage, while Giants S Dane Belton emerged as a playmaker creating turnovers. Eagles WR Danny Gray, recovered from injury, competes for a spot amid strong receivers. Washington DT Daron Payne gained praise for his leadership and effort, with the team hoping for a bounce-back pass-rush season.
NFC North features Bears LB Reuben Hiplight II as a notable improver, Lions DB Avonte Maddox bringing veteran experience, Packers C Jacob Monk impressing as a backup during offseason due to Elgton Jenkins’ absence, and Vikings CB Isaiah Rogers showing his playmaking and cover skills.
In the NFC South, Falcons LB Deablo is a rising defensive leader, Panthers DT Chaw Smith Wade showed impressive offseason development, Saints OL Trevor Penning is adapting well to a new position, Buccaneers LB Sirvocea Dennis stood out despite past injuries.
Finally, in the NFC West, Cardinals ILB Cody Simon made a strong impression with his learning and physicality. Rams OLB Byron Young was praised for his deliberate improvement. 49ers WR Jordan Watkins impressed with his route-running during injuries to other receivers, and Seahawks G Anthony Bradford showed promising progress to reclaim his starting job.
Fan Take: This roundup of emerging NFL talent highlights how crucial the offseason and minicamps are for lesser-known players to stake their claim for significant roles. For NFL fans, these under-the-radar players could shape team successes and bring exciting unpredictability to the season, potentially impacting team dynamics and league narratives in unexpected ways.
