Underrated NFL Players to Watch in 2026
Isn’t watching soccer enjoyable? It’s even more engaging when you analyze the game. I mean, there’s something satisfying about breaking down the strategies and stats, isn’t there?
One of my favorite activities, when diving into game footage and metrics, is uncovering those players whose performances outshine their recognition. Discovering a hidden gem is such a rewarding experience—sharing that excitement with others just feels great.
I’ve been writing about players that fly under the radar for SB Nation for some time. Between the “Hidden Gems” in the offseason and “Secret Superstars” during the season, I’ve really enjoyed this process. Now, as the 2026 NFL preseason kicks off, I think it’s time to close out the “Hidden Gems” feature. Many of these players will likely take the field this preseason and hopefully gain some visibility as they compete for starting roles.
In this “Hidden Gems” segment, I want to spotlight one overlooked veteran, a free agent who might be underrated (sometimes we do see players being underappreciated even when traded), and a draft pick who deserves more attention. Each of these players is on the rise for various reasons, yet they don’t seem to get their due.
By the end of the preseason, all 32 teams are expected to be formed. Make sure to check back frequently for updates on hidden gems from your favorite teams. Here’s what we have so far: click on the team names to access detailed analyses of these players. It’s odd how few people seem to know about them at this point.
Buffalo Bills: TE Jackson Hawes, DB Dee Alford, WR Skyler Bell
Miami Dolphins: OT Patrick Paul, WR Jalen Tolbert, LB/DB Kyle Lewis
New England Patriots: Safety Craig Woodson, WR Romeo Doubs, CB Karon Planty
New York Jets: EDGE Will McDonald IV, DI T’Vondre Sweat, CB D’Angelo Pons
Baltimore Ravens: CB Nate Wiggins, DL Calais Campbell, WR Elijah Surratt
Cincinnati Bengals: CB Dax Hill, DL Jonathan Allen, Center Connor Lue
Cleveland Browns: QB Dillon Gabriel, LB Quincy Williams, DB Emmanuel McNeil Warren
Pittsburgh Steelers: Center Zach Frazier, CB Jamel Dean, RB/WR Eli Heidenreich
Houston Texans: CB Kamari Lassiter, Safety Reid Blankenship, WR Lewis Bonds
Indianapolis Colts: Center Tanner Bortolini, EDGE Arden Key, LB Bryce Boettcher
Denver Broncos, Kansas City Chiefs, Las Vegas Raiders, Los Angeles Chargers:
Dallas Cowboys: WR Ryan Flournoy, Safety Jalen Thompson, CB Devin Moore
New York Giants: DB Drew Phillips, TE Isaiah Riley, WR Malachi Fields
Philadelphia Eagles: EDGE Jarrix Hunt, WR Dontavion Wicks, OG Micah Morris
Washington Commanders: Safety Jeremy Reeves, EDGE K’Lavon Chaisson, WR Antonio Williams
Chicago Bears: RB Kyle Monangai, LB Devin Bush, CB Malik Muhammad
Detroit Lions: CB Rock Yasin, WR/Returner Greg Dortch, CB Keith Abney
Green Bay Packers: CB Kayshawn Nixon, LB Zaire Franklin, DL Chris McClellan
Minnesota Vikings: RB Jordan Mason, CB James Pierre, CB Chuck Demings
Atlanta Falcons, Carolina Panthers, New Orleans Saints, Tampa Bay Buccaneers:
Arizona Cardinals, Los Angeles Rams, San Francisco 49ers, Seattle Seahawks:
