Superstars are often seen as the face of success in the NFL, but really, they’re just players who know when they’re needed the most.
Take the Super Bowl-winning Philadelphia Eagles, for example. They brought in linebacker Zach Baun on a one-year, $3.5 million deal ahead of the 2024 season. He came from the New Orleans Saints, where his role was somewhat limited—more of a rotational linebacker and special teams ace than a standout. But defensive coordinator Vic Fangio recognized potential in Baun, believing he could become a key player for the defense.
And, well, Fangio was right. Baun has thrived within Fangio’s scheme, eventually signing a three-year, $51 million contract, with $34 million guaranteed that coincides with an impressive Super Bowl win. His rise from an overlooked player to a crucial cog in the machine is quite remarkable.
Now, with the Eagles focused on the future, this sentiment extends to every NFL team. I find myself continually exploring the “Secret Superstar” concept through weekly articles during the 2024 season. I thought it might be fun to shift gears a bit and create a “Hidden Gems” series that highlights three underrated players from each team. These articles include photos, insights from coaches and teammates, relevant stats, and even some game tape examples.
It’s essential to keep an eye out for the next potential standout like Baun for the 2025 season. You can explore all of these articles linked below.
AFC East
Buffalo Bills: Alec Anderson, Josh Palmer, Dorian Strong
Miami Dolphins: Zach Sieler, Nick Westbrook-Ikhine, Jordan Phillips
New England Patriots: Keion White, K’lavon Chaisson, Kyle Williams
New York Jets: Will McDonald IV, Josh Reynolds, Malachi Moore
AFC North
Baltimore Ravens: Travis Jones, DeAndre Hopkins, Teddye Buchanan
Cincinnati Bengals: DJ Turner II, Tedarrell Slaton, Tahj Brooks
Cleveland Browns: Martin Emerson Jr., Teven Jenkins, Dylan Sampson
Pittsburgh Steelers: Calvin Austin III, Brandin Echols, Jack Sawyer
AFC South
Houston Texans: Tim Settle, Nick Chubb, Jalen Reed
Indianapolis Colts: Jaylon Jones, Khalil Herbert, Jalen Travis
Jacksonville Jaguars: Jarrian Jones, Dennis Gardeck, Bhayshul Tuten
Tennessee Titans: Amani Hooker, Kevin Zeitler, Eric Ayomenor
AFC West
Denver Broncos: Brandon Jones, Evan Engram, Cyvion Jones
Kansas City Chiefs: Jaden Hicks, Elijhah Badger, Nohl Williams
Las Vegas Raiders: Adam Butler, Elandon Roberts, Donte Thornton Jr.
Los Angeles Chargers: Tuli Tuipulotu, Donte Jackson, Jamaree Caldwell
NFC East
Dallas Cowboys: Jalen Tolbert, Dante Fowler Jr., Shavon Revel Jr.
New York Giants: Tyrone Tracy Jr., Chauncey Golston, Darius Alexander
Philadelphia Eagles: Reed Blankenship, Azeez Ojulari, Ty Robinson
Washington Commanders: Dorance Armstrong, Jaylin Lane, Javon Kinlaw
NFC North
Chicago Bears: Gervon Dexter Sr., Dayo Odeyingbo, Zah Frazier
Detroit Lions: Kerby Joseph, Avonte Maddox, Ahmed Hassanein
Green Bay Packers: Carrington Valentine, Mecole Hardman Jr., Barryn Sorrell
Minnesota Vikings: Blake Cashman, Ryan Kelly, Tai Felton
NFC South
Atlanta Falcons: Darnell Mooney, Leonard Floyd, Xavier Watts
Carolina Panthers: DJ Wonnum, Rico Dowdle, Lathan Ransom
New Orleans Saints: Khalen Saunders, Julian Blackmon, Devin Neal
Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Zyon McCollum, Haason Reddick, Elijah Roberts
NFC West
Arizona Cardinals: James Conner, Calais Campbell, Kitan Crawford
Los Angeles Rams: Cobie Durant, Davante Adams, Chris “Pooh” Paul Jr.
San Francisco 49ers: DeMormore Lenoir, Demarcus Robinson, CJ West
Seattle Seahawks: Coby Bryant, Demarcus Lawrence, Damian Martinez
